Exercise system

ABSTRACT

Exercise system. In one example embodiment, an exercise system may include a sensing device, a portable control device, and a remote server. The sensing device may include a first sensor configured to detect exercise data of exercise performed by a user, a first data storage configured to store the exercise data, a first radio frequency (RF) wireless interface, and a first processor. The portable control device may include a second RF wireless interface, a second data storage, and a second processor. The remote server may include a third interface, a third data storage, and a third processor.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/176,510, filed Jul. 5, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,028,368, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/413,362, filed Mar.27, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,029,415, which is a continuation-in-partof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/849,068, filed Aug. 31, 2007, nowabandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/315,682, filed Dec. 21, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,985,164,which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/856,676, filed May 28, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,628,730, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/776,410,filed on Feb. 2, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,852. Each of theaforementioned applications and patents is hereby incorporated herein inits entirety by reference.

FIELD

Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to an exercise system and, morespecifically, to an exercise system that includes a sensing device, aportable control device, and a remote server.

BACKGROUND

In an attempt to improve their health and physical conditioning,consumers are purchasing home exercise devices in record quantities. Onecommon challenge with home exercise equipment is motivating thepurchaser to use the device on a consistent and ongoing basis.Typically, many exercise devices involve repetitive actions, which canquickly become tedious to a person exercising alone. By eliminatingexercising consistency over a period of time, the exercising person isprevented from achieving fitness levels at the same rate as would bepossible by maintaining a steady and continuous exercise schedule. Toaid home users maintain an exercising schedule, many systems and methodshave been developed to simulate the exercising activities andencouragement associated with a health club or other similar facility,while permitting the user to exercise in the comfort of the user's ownhome.

Typically, health clubs provide organized exercise classes and routinesthat involve a group setting, where an individual member of the classderives encouragement and motivation from other members of the group.Furthermore, while individuals exercise at a health club they are taughtcorrect techniques for exercising, thereby reducing the possibility ofbeing injured during an exercise program. For example, in recent years,there has been a rise in the popularity of “Spinning Classes,” in whicheach participant operates his or her own stationery exercise cycle in agroup setting, with a coach or instructor leading the group through aprescribed program or routine. The coach provides instructions as totechnique and exercising performance, while also optionally varying theexercising program or routine on a per person basis. Similarly, withrecent advances in the design of treadmills, it is possible to have“Treadmill Classes” wherein an instructor not only leads the group, butthe instructor is also able to control the operation of the treadmillsof all of the class participants from a single control panel.

As implied above, one primary disadvantage with group training at ahealth club is the inconvenience of traveling to and from the healthclub. Consequently, it would be a definite advancement in the art ofhome exercise equipment to provide the desirable benefits of groupexercise in a home setting. Specifically, it would be an advancement toprovide greater motivation and encouragement to a user of home exerciseequipment, thereby increasing the potential for consistency with anexercise schedule.

One type of system includes a videocassette recorder (VCR) or similardevice coupled, via a hard wired connection, to an exercise machine,such as a treadmill. As an individual exercises on the treadmill, theVCR in synchronization with prerecorded audio/video presentationscontrols the speed and incline of the treadmill. Although this type ofsystem provides some motivational content to the exercising individualthere is no interactivity with a personal trainer or a manner to modifythe exercise program or routine on a per individual basis. Further, thevideo playback equipment is typically maintained at a single locationand hence the exercise equipment has to be in close proximity to theVCR.

Another system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,645,509, entitled “RemoteExercise Control System” that is incorporated herein by reference. Sucha system discloses a remote exercise control system in which an exercisemachine, such as a treadmill, remotely communicates via a communicationsmodule with an evaluation module located at a remote location. Signalsindicative of the operating parameters of the treadmill are transmittedfrom the treadmill to the evaluation module, and control signals aretransmitted from the remote evaluation module for controlling theoperating parameters of the treadmill.

Although each of the above provides some advance to giving motivationand encouragement to an exercising individual, limitations still remain.

SUMMARY

In general, some example embodiments described herein relate to anexercise system that includes a sensing device, a portable controldevice, and a remote server.

In one example embodiment, an exercise system may include a sensingdevice, a portable control device, and a remote server. The sensingdevice may include a first sensor configured to detect exercise data ofexercise performed by a user, a first data storage configured to storethe exercise data, a first radio frequency (RF) wireless interface, anda first processor configured to retrieve the exercise data from thefirst data storage and send the exercise data over the first RF wirelessinterface. The portable control device may include a second RF wirelessinterface configured to receive the exercise data from the first RFwireless interface, a second data storage, and a second processorconfigured to store the exercise data in the second data storage andfurther configured to retrieve the exercise data from the second datastorage and send the exercise data through the Internet. The remoteserver may include a third interface configured to receive the exercisedata through the Internet from the portable control device, a third datastorage, and a third processor configured to store the exercise data inthe third data storage and further configured to analyze the exercisedata and display an analysis of the exercise data on a website that isaccessible to the user through the Internet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more particular description will be rendered by reference to specificembodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understandingthat these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention andare not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, theembodiments will be described and explained with additional specificityand detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is an exercise system according to the teaching of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective illustration of a reorienting treadmill with thetread base positioned in a first position for a user to performexercises to be used in the exercise system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective illustration of a reorienting treadmill of FIG.2 with the tread base positioned in a second or storage position;

FIG. 4 is a partial plan view of portions of the reorienting treadmillillustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 with the treadmill oriented in the secondor storage position and with the bottom cover removed, revealing some ofthe internal components of the treadmill;

FIG. 5 is a partial exploded perspective view of the incline mechanismincorporated into the treadmill illustrated in FIGS. 2 through 4;

FIG. 6 is a perspective illustration of a control panel of thereorienting treadmill of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary computer and associated system thatprovides a suitable operating environment for the exercise system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram of a communication system of theexercise system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of the treadmill and computer withan associated translator box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of the exercise system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a more detailed functional block diagram of the exercisesystem of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram of the illustrative modules of thecommunication module;

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrative of a process of gatheringinformation through the login/registration module of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a functional block diagram of illustrative modules of theaudio program module of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 a flow diagram illustrative of the process of selecting an audioprogram for a particular exercise device selected from those illustratedin FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 a functional block diagram of the illustrative modules andfunctions of the personal training module of FIG. 12;

FIGS. 17A-D are flow diagrams representative of the processes a userperforms using the competition module of FIG. 12;

FIG. 18 is a flow diagram representing the process of performingdiagnostics on the treadmill of FIG. 2 from a distant location;

FIG. 19 is a flow diagram representing the actions performed by the userand communication module to create audio and video programs inaccordance with the teaching of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram of a master-slave system accordingto the teaching of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is another exercise system according to the teaching of thepresent invention;

FIG. 22 is a detailed representation of a portable system of theexercise system of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a block diagram representation of the portable system ofFIGS. 21 and 22;

FIG. 24 is a representation of an alternate embodiment of the controldevice of the present invention mounted in a cradle; and

FIG. 25 is a representation of an alternate embodiment of a portion ofthe portable system of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is directed to devices that include one or moremotors or other electrically driven actuators used to control one ormore operating parameters of the device. While the invention will bedescribed in the context of a motorized treadmill, it should beunderstood that the invention is not limited to any particular type ofexercise device. To the contrary, the present invention can be readilyadapted to any motorized device or any other device that utilizesmotors, solenoids, or any other electrically driven actuators to controlany operating parameter of the device, such as speed, resistance,incline, time, temperature, or other similar operating parameters. Theterm “device” or “devices” shall refer broadly to any type of apparatusthat includes one or more stepper motors, solenoids, or otherelectrically driven actuators or controllers. Additionally, the term“exercise devices” shall refer broadly to any type of device that takesthe form of an exercise machine, including, but not limited to,treadmills, exercise cycles, Nordic style ski exercise devices, rowers,steppers, hikers, climbers, and elliptical or striding exercise devices.

Depicted in FIG. 1 is a representation of one illustrative system,designated by reference numeral 10, that may incorporate the novelfeatures of the present invention, including various novel devices,hardware and software modules, and the like that may be remotelyaccessed and controlled in a real-time manner. As shown, one or moreexercise mechanisms, such as a treadmill 12 a-12 n is in communicationwith one or more trainers at treadmill 20 a-20 n via a translator device13 and a personal computer 14. The translator device 13 and personalcomputer 14 communicate with a network 16 that is a communicationnetwork that enables various hardware and software modules and devicesto communicate one with another. Network 16, therefore, may be a localarea network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), wireless network,packetized network, real-time network, and the like. Network 16facilitates communication of treadmill 12 with a live trainer ontreadmill 20 and/or communication system 18 (e.g. a website).Communication system 18 assists communication between a user ontreadmill 12 and either a live trainer on treadmill 20, or some otherthird party 21, as will be described in more detail hereinafter.Optionally, communication system 18 acts as a stored trainer or connectsto a stored trainer.

The following discussion will be directed to only a single treadmill 12and a single treadmill 20, however, it may be appreciated that a similardiscussion may be had for multiple treadmills 12 a-12 n, 20 a-20 n. Inaddition, although only one of each element of system 10 is depicted, itmay be appreciated by one skilled in the art that system 10 may have amixture of both single and multiple elements, for example, at least onetreadmill 12, 20, translator device 13, personal computer 14, network16, and communication system 18. Alternatively, one or more of theelements of system 10 may be eliminated or the functionality thereofincorporated within the structure and function of one or more of theother elements of system 10.

Similarly, although each of the elements of system 10 are shownseparated one from another, it may be appreciated by one skilled in theart that the hardware and/or software elements of the present inventionmay be incorporated within two or more elements. For example, translatordevice 13 and personal computer 14 may be incorporated within treadmill12. Similarly, the hardware and/or software elements of thecommunication system 18 may be incorporated within treadmill 20.

As defined herein, the term “trainer” or “third party” 21 may include:(i) a live human being; or (ii) a stored trainer, such as a website,computer, optical media (e.g., compact disk or digital video disk),visual media, or magnetic media (e.g., videotape, readable disk), anelectronic monitoring system, dynamic computer readable instructions,interactive and/or dynamic software programs, computer readableinstructions, and other media and hardware and/or software modules andcomponents, whether or not the trainer is located at treadmill 20 or atsome other location. In one embodiment, the third party is anothertrainer.

Generally, system 10 enables exercise programming with control signalsto be transmitted from a trainer at treadmill 20, or alternatively fromcommunication system 18, to a user at treadmill 12. As disclosed in U.S.patent Ser. No. 09/349,608 entitled “Systems and Methods for Providingan Improved Exercise Device with Motivational Programming,” which isincorporated herein by reference, the programming may includemotivational content and/or one or more control signals that may be usedto control the operating parameters of treadmill 12 in real-time in anuninterrupted manner. The control signals may be synchronized with themotivational content and designed to control one or more operatingparameters of the exercise device, such as the speed, incline,difficulty of exercise program, time, distance, and the like of anexercise program performed on treadmill 12.

As used herein, the term “motivational content” is used to broadly referto any audio material, including dialog, narration, sound effects,and/or music, either alone or in combination with video material. In oneembodiment of the present invention, the motivational content is storedin communication system 18 and includes an audio/video presentation of apersonal trainer and others engaged in a series of exercises of varyingdifficulty. In another embodiment of the present invention, themotivational content is a live-on-live, real-time exercise programpresented by one or more personal trainers that is either specific toone particular user or alternatively broadcast or optionally “webcast”to any user that it may access communication system 18. In still yetanother embodiment, the programming includes an exercise profile of theintensity of various exercise criteria, such as but limited to, speed,incline, or resistance of the exercise device, that is displayedcontinually or periodically to the user during the performance of theprogramming. In still yet another embodiment of the present invention,the user controls the period of when the exercise profile appears. Oneskilled in the art may appreciate that various other configurations ofprogramming are applicable.

Generally, the second real-time signal may include both the motivationalcontent and the control signals, whether or not such control signals aresynchronized with the motivational content. Alternatively, the secondreal-time signal may include only the motivational content, othersignals representative of measurable parameters of the exercise device(e.g. speed, inclination, resistance, etc.) and/or a user of theexercise device (e.g. heart rate, blood pressure, etc.), and the like.For example, treadmill 12 may transmit one or more signals tocommunication system 18. The signal may include parameters such as thestatus of the exercise device, e.g., active status (i.e., on),deactivated status (i.e., off), standby status (i.e., waiting), and thelike, and/or parameters such as speed, inclination, resistance.Additionally, the signal may include parameters regarding the user, suchas heart rate, blood pressure, and the like. Alternatively, treadmill 12may receive programming “broadcast” by communication system 18 and/or atrainer at treadmill 20, such that any treadmill with the capabilitiesto receive the programming may access such, without the need to transmitone or more signals.

As mentioned above, the control signals control the operating parametersof treadmill 12, such as speed, inclination, resistance, and the like.Such control may be achieved by a trainer at treadmill 20, a combinationof a trainer at treadmill 20 and communication system 18, or a thirdparty 21 interacting with treadmill 20 and/or communication system 18.Generally, the present invention allows control of a device, such as anexercise device, without the need to interrupt the other portions of theprogramming, such as the real-time audio and/or video.

FIGS. 2 through 5 generally depict a typical motorized, reorientingtreadmill 12. Although the discussion herein will be directed totreadmill 12, it may be appreciated by one skilled in the art thattreadmill 20 may include all or a portion of the elements, modules, andmeans discussed herein.

Treadmill 12, in one embodiment, includes a control panel 22 supportedon a generally upright support structure 24 and a tread base 26. Uprightsupport structure 24, in this illustrative embodiment, includes two sidemembers 28, 30 coupled together by way of one or more cross members 32.Side members 28, 30 and cross members 32 may have various configurationsand may be fabricated from various materials so long as they are capableof supporting control panel 22 and tread base 26. For example, theelements of upright support structure 24 may be fabricated from, but notlimited to metals, plastics, composites, combinations thereof, and thelike. Additionally, one skilled in the art may appreciate that variousother exercise devices may have different upright support structures,side members, and cross members, or be devoid of one or more of suchstructures and members.

The tread base 26 typically includes a pair of side rails 34, 36 eachhaving a front portion proximal to and a rear portion distal fromupright support structure 24 when tread base 26 is in a downwardexercisable position. As shown in FIG. 4, a front pulley 38 and a rearpulley 40 are disposed between and supported by side rails 34, 36, whilea continuous belt 42 extends between and around front and rear pulleys38 and 40, respectively. Pulleys 38, 40 and belt 42 may have variousconfigurations and be fabricated from various materials, as known by oneskilled in the art and commonly known within the exercise industry.

A deck 44, commonly fabricated from wood, typically supports the upperrun of belt 42 and supports an exercising individual resting upon belt42. Although deck 44 is preferably of a cellulose material such as wood,various other types of material may be used so long as deck 44 iscapable of supporting belt 42 and a user exercising thereupon.

As best seen in FIG. 4, in one embodiment, front pulley 38 ismechanically coupled to an electric tread drive motor 46 by way ofpulleys 48 and 50 and a drive belt 52. In this illustrative embodiment,motor 46 further incorporates an inertial flywheel 54 that controlsfluctuations in the rotational motion of a shaft of motor 46 duringoperation of treadmill 12. Motor 46 is optionally electrically coupledto a treadmill controller 56 that controls the operation of motor 46,and thus the speed of belt 42, in response to various user inputs orother control signals. As shown, treadmill controller 56 is incorporatedwithin tread base 26; however, it may be appreciated by one skilled inthe art that treadmill controller 56 may be incorporated within controlpanel 22 or alternatively within personal computer 14.

In addition to the ability to control and vary the speed of belt 42,treadmill 12 also permits the degree of incline of tread base 26relative to the floor, or other surface upon which tread base 26 rests,to be varied. Typically, this is accomplished through the use of anincline drive motor 60 that rises or lowers one end of tread base 26relative to the other end. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2through 5, tread base 26 includes a pair of rear feet 62 and 64 that arerotatably attached to the rear of a portion of side rails 34, 36. Asbest seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, feet 62 and 64 are mechanically coupledthrough a shaft 66 to incline drive motor 60, which causes feet 62 and64 to pivot about their points of pivotal attachment to side rails 34,36, thereby selectively raising or lowering the rear end of tread base26 relative to the front end thereof. Motor 60 is also optionallyelectrically coupled to, and controlled by the treadmill controller 56.

As shown in FIG. 2, treadmill 12 (and optionally treadmill 20) includescontrol panel 22 attached to side members 28, 30 of upright supportstructure 24. Control panel 22, in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6,includes one or more interface devices. Such interface devices may beeither input devices or output devices. Input devices enable a user toinput and vary the operating parameters of treadmill 12. As examples ofsuch input devices, control panel 22 includes many typical controllersfor use on an exercise device, such as a treadmill. A number ofillustrative input devices include but are not limited to speed controls72, incline controls 74, time controls 68, distance controls 70, a startbutton 76, a stop or pause button 78, and heart rate controls 80. Inaddition to these input devices, such as one or more controllers,control panel 22 further optionally includes an iFit.com button 82, amanual override button 84, and a scaling control 86, each of which arealso examples of input devices. It may be appreciated that each of theabove-recited controllers or buttons may be embodied in a variety ofdifferent manners to perform their commonly utilized function. Inaddition, each controller, button, and the like may take the form of oneor more switches, rheostats, potentiometers, touch sensitive controls,voice activated controllers, and the like. The input devices describedherein are examples of structures capable of performing the function ofinterface means for gathering a first signal (such as a real timesignal) from the user. One skilled in the art may identify various otherconfigurations of interface means that are capable of performing thedesired function. Additionally, it may be appreciated that treadmill 20may also include such interface means.

As shown in FIG. 6, iFit.com button 82, in one embodiment, acts as botha selector and an indicator of connectivity of treadmill 12 tocommunication system 18, and optionally treadmill 20, whether suchconnectivity is via translator device 13, computer 14, or directly fromtreadmill 12. The iFit.com button 82 optionally includes an indicatorlight (not shown) that demonstrates when a connection has beenestablished between treadmill 12 and communication system 18, such aswhen iFit.com button 82 is depressed. Alternatively, a light emittingdiode (LED) positioned in close proximity to iFit.com button 82 may beactivated when iFit.com button 82 is activated.

The connection achieved by activating iFit.com button 82 may be via avariety of communication line connections. For example, as shown,control panel 22 includes a wireless port 105 that enables treadmill 12to wirelessly communicate with network 16 (FIG. 1), either directly orvia computer 14 and/or translator device 13. Alternatively, wirelessport 105 may be located on tread base 26. Various other types of portsor interfaces may be included within treadmill 12 to enablecommunication via one or more communication line connections. Forexample, treadmill 12 may include one or more ports and interfaces toenable communication line connections through existing broadcasttechnology, including television broadcast over the airwaves, cable orcable modems, satellite, telephone lines, whether analog or digitallybased, the Internet, DSL, G-Lite, wireless technology, infrared (IR)technology, other high-speed data connections, or any other suitabletransmission technology or medium. Optionally, a communication port on auser treadmill may enable communication directly with another treadmill(such as in a master/slave scenario), whether or not such communicationutilizes a network.

In one embodiment, by activating iFit.com button 82, a user of treadmill12, or other exercise device, connects to communication system 18, suchas a website. Such connection may be via an independently locatedcomputer, such as computer 14, through translator device 13 or directlythrough a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) by way ofthe described communication line connections for example, or otherconnections known to one skilled in the art.

More specifically, by activating the iFit.com button 82 a signal istransmitted to communication system 18 to create a connectiontherebetween. In this manner, treadmill 12 may receive signalsrepresentative of exercise programming from communication system 18.Additionally, the connection with communication system 18 enables theuser to obtain the services of a stored trainer or a personal trainer toperform programming, ask questions, download or access programmingmaterials, surf the web, gather and send electronic mail messages(“e-mail”), listen to audio programming, view video programming, reviewand update user information and statistics, load user statistics,purchase exercise programming, equipment, and materials, update exercisedevice software and operating parameters, research exercise materials,and the like.

Furthermore, activation of the connection with communication system 18enables treadmill 12, or other exercise device, to have the potential ofbeing controlled during an exercise program by a third party, whetherthat third party is another personal trainer using another treadmill 20,a stored communication system 18, or some other individual, hardware, orsoftware modules or components. For example, a third party individual ora stored third party trainer may operate a console controlling theoperation of one or more exercise devices in a group class setting,including devices operated by a live or stored trainer and by traineeusers. This may be useful in a spinning class or other class in which atrainer trains trainee users. In one embodiment, as the third partycontrols the operation of the exercise devices, the trainer cancommunicate motivational messages to the trainee users.

Similarly, activation of the connection with network 16 and/orcommunication system 18 enables one or more users to interact one withanother, and optionally compete one against another as shall bedescribed in detail hereinafter. For example, a first user on treadmill12 a may receive information regarding the workout performed by a seconduser on treadmill 12 n via network 16 and/or communication system 18,and then compete against the second user and vice versa. Thiscompetition may be live on live or time adjusted, e.g., a workoutrecorded previously by the second user, which the first user competesagainst. Greater information about communication system 18, with itsassociated modules and components will be discussed in detailhereinafter.

As mentioned above, control panel 22 may include manual override button84. Manual override button 84 enables a user to override an actioninitiated by (i) a live trainer or (ii) a stored trainer, such ascommunication system 18, stored programming that is located within thememory of computer 14, or alternatively in memory stored in treadmill12. Upon activating manual override button 84, control of the operationof treadmill 12 is returned to the user. Consequently, the user mayoperate the manual controls of treadmill 12, such as speed controls 72,incline controls 74, time controls 68, distance controls 70, a startbutton 76, and a stop or pause button 78 during the performance of anexercise program or regime. For example, if the exercise programaccessed through communication system 18 is too difficult for the user,the user may activate manual override button 84 thereby interrupting theprogram delivered to treadmill 12 by communication system 18 andthereafter reduce the intensity of the exercise program through theuser's manipulation of the speed controls 72, incline controls 74, timecontrols 68, distance controls 70, a start button 76, and/or a stop orpause button 78. Furthermore, in the event that the exercise program istoo easy, the user may increase the difficulty level of the exercisedevice through one or more of speed controls 72, incline controls 74,time controls 68, and distance controls 70. Consequently, manualoverride button 84 provides the user with a safety switch duringoperation of treadmill 12. In an alternate configuration of treadmill12, the functionality of manual override button 84 is activated uponmanual activation of one of the other input devices, such as but notlimited to, incline controls 74, speed controls 72, stop/pause button78, and the like.

Similar to the operation of manual override button 84, scaling control86 enables a user to vary the operating parameters of treadmill 12during an exercise program initiated externally to treadmill 12. A usermay activate scaling control 86 and vary the intensity of an exerciseprogram. The scaling control 86, therefore, enables a user to select avalue representative of the proportional change to be made to thecontrol signal received by the communicating mechanism of treadmill 12from communication system 18. For example, if an exercise programrequires a maximum speed of 6 miles per hour (mph) with a maximumincline of 15 degrees for a period of 30 minutes, an individual mayactivate scaling control 86 to require only 66% intensity of theexercise program; stated otherwise, reduce the intensity by one third.Therefore, the exercise program is varied to a maximum speed of 4 mph,with a maximum incline of 10 degrees, for a period of 20 minutes.Optionally, scaling control 86 may enable the user to set maximum valuesfor each operating parameter of treadmill 12. In another configuration,scaling control 86 may enable the user to scale only one operatingparameter of treadmill 12 while leaving other parameters unchanged.Hence, the user may vary the exercise program to their particularabilities, while obtaining the beneficial effects of exercising.

As another example of an input device of the present invention, controlpanel 22 may include a diagnostic control 88. Upon activation ofdiagnostic control 88, whether by depressing a button or by some othermanner known to one skilled in the art, treadmill 12 communicates withcommunication system 18 to check the operating status of the exercisedevice. Communication system 18, thereby sends signals to the internalhardware and software modules of treadmill 12 to verify that the modulesare operating within the desired specifications or to determine whethertreadmill 12 may include software for which an update is available. Inone embodiment, in the event that one or more of the hardware and/orsoftware modules are damaged or not performing as required,communication system 18 may download one or more software updates fromcommunication system 18 if possible. Alternatively, communication system18 may inform the user that an error has occurred and advise that theuser obtain maintenance of the hardware components of treadmill 12.

As additional examples of input devices, according to another aspect ofthe present invention, control panel 22 may include an audio inputdevice 90 and a video input device 92. Audio and video input devices 90,92 enable a user to perform communication, such as real timecommunication, with other users of exercise devices, via communicationsystem 18 (FIG. 1). The audio and video input devices 90, 92 also enablethe user to hear and/or watch (i) a live trainer or (ii) a storedtrainer, such as recorded programs, educational programming,entertainment programming, and the like. The diagnostic control 88,audio input device 90 and video input device 92, therefore, arestructures capable of performing the function of interface means,communicating with the exercise mechanism, for gathering a first signalfrom the user. Various other configurations of such interface means areknown to one skilled in the art in view of the teachings containedherein.

In one embodiment, audio input device 90 may take the form of amicrophone, while video input device 92 may take the form of a videocamera. Audio input device 90 and video input device 92 mayalternatively take various other configurations as known by one skilledin the art. For example, audio input device 90 may be a microphonedetachably connected to control panel 22 or another part of treadmill12. In another configuration, audio input device 90 may be locateddistant from treadmill 12, while being capable of gathering the audioinputs from the user. In still another configuration, audio input device90 may be eliminated from treadmill 12, while treadmill 12 includes anaudio jack, such as an RCA-type audio jack, RJ-type jacks, digital audiojack, and the like. In still another configuration, audio input device90 may be a radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), or wireless typemicrophone. Similarly, video input device 92 may have the configurationof a digital video camera integrally formed within control panel 22.Alternatively, video input device 92 may be detachably connected tocontrol panel 22 or another part of treadmill 12, such as wirelessdigital cameras. Still in another configuration, video input device 92may be located distant from treadmill 12, while being capable ofgathering the requisite video signals to be transmitted to communicationsystem 18 (FIG. 1).

In addition to the above-described audio and video input devices 90, 92respectively, control panel 22 may include a variety of other inputdevices. For example, control panel 22 may include an integrally formedmouse 100. Additionally, control panel 22 may include a keyboard jack102 for an external keyboard 103, a controller port 104 for receivingone of a variety of game controller, an integrally formed mouse 100, atouch-sensitive video display, and various other ports, jacks, or thelike to receive various other external components. Each input device isadapted to allow a user operating treadmill 12 to more fully operate oneor more operating parameters of treadmill 12. Furthermore, the inputdevices enable the user to access communication system 18 and/or obtaineducational information, entertainment information, or other informationvia network 16, whether such information is from communication system 18or from one of a variety of other hardware and/or software modules thatare accessible via network 16. For example, the input devices may allowthe user to surf the Internet to find educational materials orentertainment. These additional input devices are further examples ofstructures capable of performing the function of interface means,communicating with the exercise mechanism, or gathering a first signalfrom the user.

Control panel 22, in one embodiment, includes one or more output devicesthat provide a visual and optionally an audio indication of theoperational status of treadmill 12 to the user. As with the inputdevices, the output devices may have various configurations and performnumerous functions. Generally, the output devices described herein areeach structures capable of performing the function of means forreproducing a signal. The output devices and hence the means forreproducing a signal may have various configurations as known to oneskilled in the art in view of the teaching contained herein. In oneembodiment, each speed control 72, incline control 74, time control 68,distance controls 70, and heart rate control 80 has an associated outputdevice 68 a, 70 a, 72 a, 74 a, and 80 a respectively. For example, eachoutput device 68 a, 70 a, 72 a, 74 a, and 80 a may take the form of anumerical indicator, a graphical indicator, a combination of a numericalindicator and a graphical indicator, so long as such output devices 68a, 70 a, 72 a, 74 a, and 80 a are capable of displaying and presentingone or more operating parameters of treadmill 12 to the user. Theoperating parameters can be depicted in past, current, and/or futurestatus of treadmill 12.

In addition to the above output devices 68 a, 70 a, 72 a, 74 a, and 80a, control panel 22 can include output devices associated with startbutton 76 and stop or pause button 78. For example, the output devicefor start button 76 and stop or pause button 78 can take the form of anindicator 76 a, which is illuminated when power is delivered totreadmill 12 and darkened when no power is delivered to treadmill 12.Further, start button 76 can be illuminated by one or more light sourceswhen start button 76 has been depressed to cause treadmill 12 tooperate, i.e., belt 42 to rotate and/or tread base 26 to raise or lower.Upon depressing stop button 78, the light illuminating start button 76can be darkened, while optionally a light illuminating stop button 78may be activated. Various manners by which a user is informed of theoperating status of treadmill 12 are known to those skilled in the artin view of the teaching contained herein.

Control panel 22 may further include a video output device 94, such as avideo display. Generally, video output device 94 presents the user oftreadmill 12 with information and data transmitted from communicationsystem 18, whether such data is live transmission from treadmill 20, oralternatively stored programming accessible by communication system 18.Additionally, video output device 94 may optionally show information anddata from: (1) various other sources selected by the user, thirdparties, or system 10; (2) statistical information representative of theoperational parameters of treadmill 12, such as the speed, incline,duration of user's workout, etc.; (3) electronic mail messages (e-mail),and the like. Video output device 94, in one embodiment is a liquidcrystal display (LCD) or cathode ray tube (CRT) display.

One skilled in the art may appreciate that various other devices may beused to perform the functions of video output device 94. For example,video output device 94 may be an electroluminescent display (ELD), agas-plasma display, a thin film transistor (TFT) display, a virtualreality (VR) display, and the like. In another embodiment of the presentinvention, control panel 22 includes multiple video output devices 94.In still another embodiment, video output device 94 is adapted to permitsplit screen or layered images that are associated withpicture-in-picture viewing of various images and information. Forexample, video output device 94 may allow a user to watch various typesof entertainment and/or surf the Internet, while receiving imagesrepresentative of the exercise profile that they are following whethercontinuously, periodically, upon activation of a user control, or thelike.

As shown in FIG. 6, in one embodiment of the present invention, controlpanel 22 includes an audio output device 96, such as a speaker. Audiooutput device 96 performs a similar function to that of video outputdevice 94, in that audio output device 96 provides the user with audiblesignals representative of the operational parameters of treadmill 12.Additionally, audio output device 96 may deliver audio, visual, orcontrol signals to the user from communication system 18 and treadmill20. Such signals may be audible and/or inaudible signals transmittedfrom the trainer on treadmill 20. Various speakers are applicable andmay operate as audio output device 96, for example, hardwired andwireless speakers, such as computer speakers, audio system speakers, andthe like. Control panel 22 may optionally include one or more amplifiersin cooperation with audio output device 96. Furthermore, audio outputdevice 96 may be circumvented through use of one of a variety of audiojacks that enable a user to listen to the audio output throughheadphones or similar audio transmitting device.

In addition to the output devices described above, the present inventionmay include various other output devices to provide information and datato the user of treadmill 12. In one embodiment of treadmill 12, controlpanel 22 includes one or more displays depicting one or more operatingparameters of treadmill 12 and/or the communication link betweentreadmill 12, translator device 13, personal computer 14, network 16,communication system 18, treadmills 20 a-20 n, and/or third party 21.The one or more displays give a visual display of some of the moreimportant exercise device operating parameters, such as but not limitedto, speed, incline, distance traveled, calories used, elevation climbed,wheel resistance, and the like. The one or more operating parameterdisplays may use a numerical display, a graphical display, combinationsthereof, or such other displays known to one skilled in that art. Forexample, the operating parameter display may be incorporated withinvideo output device 94. Optionally, as discussed herein, the videooutput device 94 can act as an input device, such as when video outputdevice 94 has a touch sensitive screen.

According to another aspect of the present invention, treadmill 12 caninclude multiple displays that present the same information to the user.For example, video output device 94 may display certain operatingparameter information that is duplicative of operating parameterinformation represented by output devices 68 a, 70 a, 72 a, 74 a, 76 a,and 80 a. Further, treadmill 12 can include multiple controls thatenable a user to control the operation of treadmill 12 via differentinput devices. In this manner, in the event that communication betweentreadmill 12 and translator device 13, personal computer 14, network 16,communication system 18, treadmills 20 a-20 n, and/or third party 21 isinterrupted, thereby potentially causing video output device 94, forexample, to become blank and not present information to the user, allowthe user to control the operation of treadmill 12 via video outputdevice 94, or permit communication system 18 to control treadmill 12, auser can continue to view operating parameter information on controlpanel 22 and continue to vary the operating parameters throughmanipulation of the various input devices included in control panel 22,such as speed controls 72, incline controls 74, time controls 68,distance controls 70, a start button 76, and a stop or pause button 78.Consequently, treadmill 12 can include many redundant controls anddisplays to allow a user to control treadmill 12 via different inputdevices and to view operating parameters through many output devices.

As shown in FIG. 1, communicating with treadmill 12 via personalcomputer 14 is communication system 18 and treadmill 20. Those skilledin the art will appreciate that computer 14 may take variousconfigurations, including personal computers, hand-held devices,multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumerelectronics, telephones, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframecomputers, and the like. Additionally, computer 14 may be part of adistributed computer environment where tasks are performed by local andremote processing devices that are linked (either by hardwired links,wireless links, or by a combination of hardwired or wireless links)through a communications network, such as network 16. Furthermore, assuggested earlier, treadmill 12 may optionally incorporate thefunctionality of personal computer 14 therein or include one or moremodules or components of computer 14 while not incorporating all themodules and components of computer 14.

The following discussion will focus on certain examples of alternatestructures that may be used as computer 14; however it is understoodthat a similar discussion may be made for the hardware and/or softwaremodules and components associated with communication system 18,treadmill 20, and/or a third party 21. Furthermore, it may beappreciated that treadmill 12, treadmill 20, communication system 18 andthird party 21 may incorporate portions of computer 14 as describedherein and appreciated by one skilled in the art in light of theteaching contained herein. Similarly, one skilled in the art willrecognize that treadmill 12 and/or communication system 18 may includesome or all of the modules and components of computer 14.

Generally, computer 14 is configured to receive data from variousportions of treadmill 12 and deliver manipulated data to the hardwareand/or software modules or components associated with communicationsystem 18 and/or treadmill 20 or other treadmills 12 a-n. In addition,computer 14 communicates with communication system 18 and retrievesaudio, video, and control signals therefrom and provides these signalsto treadmill 12, whether or not the signals are initiated solely bycommunication system 18, treadmill 20, a third party, or anothertreadmill 12 a-12 n. Computer 14 may, therefore, use various types ofinterfaces to communicate with treadmill 12 and network 16. For example,the interface may be a wireless interface thereby utilizing IR, RF,satellite, Bluetooth transmission and associated protocols.Alternatively, the interface may be a modem, cable modem, ADSLconnection, ISDN, Ethernet, or similar other connections, voiceactivated, and the like.

Following hereinafter is a general discussion of possible modules andcomponents of computer 14. The following discussion is merelyillustrative of modules and components that may form computer 14. It isappreciated that some of the referenced modules may be eliminated whileother modules and components may be included within computer 14, asknown by those skilled in the art.

With reference now to FIG. 7, in one embodiment of the present inventioncomputer 14 is a general-purpose-computing device, including aprocessing unit 110, a computer memory 112, and a computer bus 124 thatcouples various computer components including the computer memory 112 tothe processing unit 110. The computer bus 124 may be any of severaltypes of bus structures including a memory bus or memory controller, aperipheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of busarchitectures. Additionally, when treadmill 12 includes computer 14and/or translator device 13 computer bus 124 may be an I²C bus, an SPIbus, a microwire bus, a microbus, and the like. Also, computer bus 124may use the CAN protocol, CSAFE 1 protocol, or some other protocol knownto one skilled in the art to allow communication between treadmill 12and communication system 18 and/or treadmill 20 either directly orthrough network 16.

The computer memory, in this particular embodiment, includes read onlymemory (ROM) 126 and random access memory (RAM) 128. A basicinput/output system (BIOS) 130, containing the basic routines that helptransfer information between elements within computer 14, such as duringstart-up, may be stored in ROM 126.

The computer 14 may also include a magnetic hard disk drive 132 forreading from and writing to a magnetic hard disk 138, a magnetic diskdrive 134 for reading from or writing to a removable magnetic disk 140,and an optical disk drive 136 for reading from or writing to removableoptical disk 142 such as a CD-ROM or other optical media. The magnetichard disk drive 132, magnetic disk drive 134, and optical disk drive 136are connected to computer bus 124 by a hard disk drive interface 144, amagnetic disk drive-interface 146, and an optical drive interface 148,respectively. The drives and their associated computer-readable mediaprovide nonvolatile storage of computer-executable instructions, datastructures, program modules, and other data for computer 14 as will bediscussed in detail hereinafter. Although the exemplary environmentdescribed herein may employ a magnetic hard disk 138, a removablemagnetic disk 140, and a removable optical disk 142, other types ofcomputer readable media for storing data can be used, including magneticcassettes, flash memory cards, digital video disks, Bernoullicartridges, RAMs, ROMs, and the like.

Computer 14, in one embodiment, further includes program code meanscomprising one or more program modules that may be stored on hard disk138, magnetic disk 140, optical disk 142, ROM 126 or RAM 128, includingan operating system 150, one or more application programs 152, otherprogram modules 154, and program data 156. A user may enter commands andinformation into computer 14, in one embodiment, through a keyboard 160,pointing device 162, or other input devices (not shown), such as but notlimited to microphones, joy sticks, game pads, satellite dishes,scanners, video cameras, potentiometers, buttons, switches, rheostats,or the like, whether such devices are incorporated within treadmill 12or in communication with translator device 13 and/or computer 14. Theseand other input devices are often connected to processing unit 110through a serial port interface 164 coupled to computer bus 124.Alternatively, the input devices may be connected by other interfaces,such as a parallel port, a game port, or a universal serial bus (USB),and the like. A monitor 166 or another video display device, such asthose described herein is optionally connected to computer bus 124 viaan interface, such as video adapter 168. In addition to the monitor,personal computer 14 may include other peripheral output devices (notshown), such as one or more speakers, and printers for obtaining recentstatistical information regarding the user's workouts.

The computer 14, as depicted in this illustrative embodiment, mayoperate in a networked environment using logical connections to one ormore remote computers, such as remote computer 170. The computer 14 mayalso communicate with treadmill 12 via a LAN and optionally communicatewith communication system 18 and treadmill 20 via a WAN and optionallyremote computer 170. Generally, each remote computer 170, communicationsystem 18, and treadmill 12, 20 may be or include the structure andperform the function of another personal computer, a server, a router, anetwork PC, a peer device, or other common network node, and typicallyincludes many or all of the elements described above relative tocomputer 14, although only one memory storage device 172 and itsassociated application program 174 has been illustrated in FIG. 7. Thelogical connections depicted in FIG. 7 include local area network (LAN)176 and a wide area network (WAN) 178 that are presented here by way ofexample and not limitation. Such networking environments are commonplacein office-wide or enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets and theInternet.

When used in a LAN networking environment, typically computer 14 isconnected to the local network 176 through a network interface oradapter 180 that communicates via one of a variety of communication lineconnections, such as those described previously. When used in a WANnetworking environment such that computer 14 may communicate withcommunication system 18, computer 14 may include a modem 18:2, awireless link, or other means for establishing communications over thewide area network 178, such as the Internet. The modem 182, which may beinternal or external, is connected to computer bus 124 via serial portinterface 164. In a networked environment, program modules depictedrelative to computer 14, or portions thereof, may be stored in theremote memory storage device. It will be appreciated that the networkconnections shown are exemplary and other means for establishingcommunications over wide area network 178 may be used.

Various transmission or communication protocols may be used to enablecomputer 14 to receive and transmit data through network 16. In oneembodiment of the present invention, computer 14, and more specifically,network interface 180 or serial port interface 164, may use TCP/IPcommunication protocol. Alternatively, computer 14 may use connectionorientated or connectionless networks via asynchronous transfer mode(ATM) technology, X.25 protocol, Frame Relay protocol, packet switchingprotocols, circuit switching protocols, dynamic packet switchingprotocols, 802.11 RF protocol, home network protocols, CSAFE 1, CANprotocols, and the like to transmit and receive data through network 16.

The term “transceiving” as used herein will mean transmitting,receiving, or a combination of both transmitting and receiving data. Theterm “packetized”, “packetizing”, and the like, as used herein will meandata that has been manipulated into one or more packets according to apacket switching protocol for transmission via network 16, such as maybe understood in light of the following teaching and knowledge withinthe art.

Generally, the packet contains the destination address in addition tothe data. Each packet may be transmitted individually or may be combinedor pooled with other packets of data going to similar destinations, suchas audio data, video data and/or control signals. The packets of data orpooled data are optionally compressed and encapsulated for transceivingacross network 16, where each packet may follow different routes to itsdestination. Once all the packets of a specific data message arrive atthe destination, they are decompiled and deencapsulated into theoriginal data. The packets may be prioritized according to content sothat certain packets of data are delivered to computer 14, and hencetreadmill 12, through network 16 faster than the other packets of data,For example, in a live-on-live exercise program situation audio andvideo data or signals are transceived faster than the control signals.Therefore, according to one embodiment, an individual may communicatewith a trainer in real time without the need to interrupt the real-timecommunication between the trainer and the user so that one or morecontrol signals may be delivered to the exercise device. An advantage ofpacketizing data, therefore, is that computer 14, translator device 13,and/or treadmill 12 may optimize its performance according to theavailable bandwidth of the communication connection line with network 16without the need to interrupt the real-time communication between a userand a trainer.

The discussion above describes a computer detached from treadmill 12;however, as appreciated and stated earlier, all or portions of computer14 may be optionally incorporated within treadmill 12. As such, some orall of the various elements of computer 14 may be incorporated withincontrol panel 22, or alternatively within tread base 26. In variousother configurations of the present invention, therefore, control panel22 may include one or more magnetic hard disk drives, magnetic diskdrives, optical disk drives, and associated interfaces. Control panel22, therefore, may be capable of accessing programming that is stored oncomputer diskettes, CD ROMs, DVDs, and the like. Additionally, controlpanel 22 may optionally include a keypad integrally formed therein, oroptionally include a standard keyboard interface that may enable a userto communicate with treadmill 12. The keypads and keyboard enable theuser to control the operation of treadmill 12, and optionallycommunicate with communication system 18 and other hardware and/orsoftware modules that may be accessible via network 16.

As depicted in FIG. 1, computer 14 may optionally communicate withtranslator device 13 that is configured to manipulate signalstransmitted and received between computer 14 and treadmill 12.Specifically, translator device 13 may be used when computer 14 andtreadmill 12 are incapable of directly communicating one with another.Translator device 13 includes one or more processors that convert thesignals passed therethrough to a form that the device receiving suchsignals might understand. For example, computer 14 may communicate withtranslator device 13 via a serial connection, while treadmill 12 mayonly communicate with devices that deliver data via a serial I²Cconnection or protocol. As such, translator device 13 is configured tomanipulate the serial signal received from computer 14 into a signalcapable of being delivered via a serial I²C connection or bus.

It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that translator device13 may convert various types of signal to various other forms capable ofbeing transmitted to various interfaces. For example, translator device13 may use an SPI bus, a microwire bus, a microbus, a CAN protocol, aCSAFE 1 protocol, a home network protocol, TCP/IP communicationprotocol, an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) technology, X.25 protocol,Frame Relay protocol, packet switching protocols, circuit switchingprotocols, dynamic packet switching protocols, 802.11RF protocol,serial, parallel, USB, or wireless connection, and the like.Additionally, the structure and function of translator device 13 may becompletely or partially incorporated within treadmill 12, computer 14,or a combination thereof.

Generally, computer 14 and/or translator device 13, collectively and/orindividually are examples of a communicating mechanism, communicatingwith the interface means (e.g., the input devices of control panel 22that gather a signal from the user). In one embodiment, thecommunicating mechanism enables real-time transmission of a first signalto: a live trainer (e.g., on treadmill 20), a stored trainer (e.g.,communication system 18), another user, or a third party 21, forexample. The communicating mechanism may also receive a packetizedsecond real-time signal from any of these sources.

The second real-time signal may be an audio or visual signal directed tothe user and/or a control signal directed to a device, such as anexercise device 12, for example. The audio and/or visual signal and thecontrol signal may come from the same source, such as a trainer 20. Inone embodiment, however, the second real time signal comprises an audioand/or visual signal from one source and a control signal from anothersource. For example, the audio and/or signal may come from a livetrainer, while the control signal may come from a website or vice versa.Optionally, the audio, visual, and control signals are each directedboth to the user and to the exercise device, such as when the controlsignal is an audible signal directed to a microphone connected to thedevice.

Computers 14 and/or translator device 13 portions are collectively orindividually examples of a communicating mechanism. Additionally, whenportions of one or more computers 14 and/or translator devices 13 areincorporated within treadmill 12, such portions are collectively orindividually examples of a communicating mechanism. Examples of such acommunicating mechanism of the present invention may comprise (i) asingle structure that enables transmission of the first signal and/orreceives the packetized second signal or (ii) a first structure thatenables transmission of the first signal and a separate second structurethat receives the packetized second signal. Any of these communicatingmechanisms are examples of structures capable of performing the functionof communicating means, communicating with the interface means, forreceiving a packetized second signal (such as a real time signal), andoptionally, for enabling transmission of the first signal (such as areal time signal).

In one embodiment, the communicating means only receives the secondsignal. For example, upon merely activating a user input device, such asby turning the power of the exercise device or other device on, a firstsignal is “gathered from the user,” but is not transmitted. Instead, thefirst signal merely activates the power and enables the communicatingmechanism to receive any second packetized signal that may be broadcastto the exercise device. Such a broadcast may be from a communicationsystem 18, such as by wireless transmission, RF transmission, or othermeans known to those skilled in the art. In another embodiment, thecommunicating mechanism transmits the first signal and receives thesecond signal.

Additionally, computer 14 and/or translator device 13, collectivelyand/or individually are examples of structures capable of performing thefunction of control means, communicating with the exercise mechanism,for receiving one or more packetized control signals from thecommunication system indicative of the selected exercise program and forchanging one or more operating parameters of the exercise mechanismbased upon the selected exercise program and the one or more packetizedcontrol signals.

As discussed above with respect to FIG. 1, computer 14 may transceiveone or more signals to and from communication system 18 through network16. Referring now to FIG. 8, a schematic block diagram of communicationsystem 18 is illustrated. For simplicity, only the most relevanthardware components are illustrated in FIG. 8. It may be appreciated byone skilled in the art that various other components may be includedwithin communication system 18 depending on the particular use andfunction of communication system 18.

As depicted, communication system 18 includes an interface 190 thatcommunicates with a control processor 192 and an interface 198.Interface 190 is configured to transceive one or more signals to andfrom computer 14 and treadmill 12 via network 16. Such signals mayinclude audio and visual signals of the exercising user, the status ofthe exercise device, such as active status, deactivated status, standbystatus, data and information about the user, such as heart rate, bloodpressure, and the like that has been gathered by one or more healthmonitoring devices. Such devices may include but are not limited toelectrodes, transducers, other ECG monitoring devices, a pulse watch, aheart rate monitor, an EKG electronic detection device, an ECGelectronic detection device, and the like. Similarly, interface 198enables communication system 18 to transmit the above signals to andreceive various signals from a trainer at treadmill 20 via network 16(FIG. 1). Such received signals may include audio, visual, and/orcontrol signals. Alternatively, the trainer at treadmill 20 may receiveno signals, in the case where communication system 18 controls treadmill12 without a trainer at treadmill 20.

Each interface 190, 198 therefore, may be of a variety of typesdepending on the particular communication line connection used in system10 and the particular transmission protocols used by computer 14,treadmill 12, translator device 13, or treadmill 20. For example,interfaces 190, 198 may be a wireless interface, may use infrared (IR),radio frequency (RF), microwave technology, satellite, Bluetoothtransmission, home network protocols, or various other protocols andtechnology as known by one skilled in the art. Alternatively, interfaces190, 198 may be a modem, cable modem, ADSL connection, ISDN, Ethernet,or similar other connections. Interfaces 190, 198 either solely or incombination with the other elements of communication system 18, may usevarious transmission protocols to transceive data between treadmill 12and treadmill 20 via communication system 18. It may be appreciated byone skilled in the art that interfaces 190, 198 need not be the same, solong as they may communicate with control processor 192, and the otherappropriate elements of system 10.

Communicating with interface 190 and interface 198 is a controlprocessor 192. Control processor 192 is configured to transceive signalsthrough interface 190 and manipulates the same based on selectedprogramming selected by: (i) the user; (ii) a trainer located attreadmill 20; (iii) a third party; or (iv) a combination thereof.Subsequently, control processor 192, optionally in combination withininterface 190 or 198, prepares the selected programming (i.e., audio andvideo signals with associated control signals, if any) for transmissionto treadmill 12 and 20. Control processor 192 also preferably“packetizes” the programming so that packets of information may be“streamed” or downloaded through respective interfaces 190, 198 tocomputer 14, and subsequently treadmill 12, or to treadmill 20. Eachpacket of data may be sent individually, and may follow a different pathacross network 16 to reach computer 14 (or treadmill 12). Upon reachingcomputer 14 (or treadmill 12 or 20), the data may be “buffered” so thatthe data may be delivered to the user or trainer in real-time.

Generally, control processor 192 may include one or moremicro-controllers, central processing units, state machines,programmable logic arrays, network logical arrays, or gates, ASICprocessors, software-based controllers, combination logic, combinationsthereof, and a variety of other controllers known by one skilled in theart to manipulate data transceived between treadmill 12, communicationsystem 18, and/or treadmill 20.

Control processor 192 is one example of a structure capable ofperforming the function of means for synchronizing and packetizing thecontrol signals with the programming and delivering the packetizedcontrol signal to the user device. It may be appreciated that variousother control processors and means are appropriate and known to thoseskilled in the art.

Communicating with control processor 192 is memory 194 and externalmemory 196. As shown, external memory 196 is optionally included,depending on the particular data storage needs of communication system18. For example, memory 194 and/or external memory 196 may includephysical information regarding the operation of treadmill 12.Additionally, memory 194 and/or external memory 196 may be one structurecapable of performing the function of storage means for storingprogramming. Memory 194 and/or external memory 196 may, therefore,include or be configured to access one or more audiocassette tapes,compact disks (CDs), mini disks (MDs), computer diskettes, videotapes,laser disks (LDs), digital videodisks (DVDs), computer diskettes, orsuch other media capable of storing audio and/or video programming, withassociated control signals. Additionally, memory 194 and/or externalmemory 196 may store a particular set of control signals insynchronization with the above-recited audio and video mediaprogramming. In light of the teaching contained herein, it may beappreciated by one skilled in the art, that either memory 194 and/orexternal memory 196 may take the form of or include a database structurethat enables access to the various programming stored therein.

Also communicating with control processor 192 is control signalgenerator 200. Control signal generator 200 includes circuitry and/orsoftware to generate the control signals that are synchronized with theaudio and video programming retrieved from memory 194 and/or externalmemory 196 or alternatively transmitted from treadmill 20 throughinterface 198. Therefore, control signal generator 200 may include oneor more micro-controllers, central processing units, state machines,programmable logic arrays, network logical arrays, or gates, ASICprocessors, software-based controllers, combination logic, combinationsthereof, and a variety of other controllers known by one skilled in theart to generate one or more control signals.

Control signal generator 200 is one structure capable of performing thefunction of means for generating one or more control signals. Oneskilled in the art may identify various other configurations of meansfor generating one or more control signals.

Various configurations are applicable for encoding a control signal on acarrier signal included with the audio and video programming. Followinghereinafter is a discussion of one format for encoding the controlsignals will now be discussed. It should be understood that the methodof encoding set forth herein is representative only and is not intendedto limit the scope of this invention or to limit the various otheralternative means or methods by which a control signal may betransmitted to treadmill 12 and/or optionally treadmill 20.Additionally, any number of encoding schemes, which are known to thoseskilled in the art, may be used to carry out the desired function andare encompassed within the scope of the present invention.

In one embodiment, the control signals generated by control signalgenerator 200 are carried on a two (2) kHz carrier signal, with eachcontrol signal consisting of two transmission bursts, each burst havingthree bytes of data. The second burst is intended to exactly duplicatethe first burst for error checking purposes. The first byte of data ofeach burst, generated by control signal generator 200, in thisillustrative embodiment, indicates the desired speed of the treadmill,while the second byte of data indicates the desired incline of the treadbase 26, and the third byte is a check sum of the first and secondbytes. For other exercise devices the first and second bytes mayrepresent other operating parameters, like resistance of an ellipticaldevice or cycle device. It may be appreciated that each burst mayinclude less or more than 3 bytes of data, depending on the differenttype of device that communicates with communication system 18. Asconfigured, the control signal uses a standard RS-232 protocol.Alternatively, control signals may also use other serial or parallelprotocols, such as RS-422, RS-423, universal serial bus (USB) andvarious other communication protocols known by one skilled in the art inlight of the teaching contained herein.

In one embodiment, each control signal includes both the first burst andthe second burst. Generally, the control signal is typically left in onequarter second in duration. Each byte consists of eight bits of data,giving a high degree of resolution for controlling the exercise deviceoperating parameters, such as treadmill speed and the degree of incline.In one embodiment, each time a control signal is inserted into theprogramming, the control signal entirely suppresses the audio portion ofthe programming for the duration of the control signal. Alternatively,and more preferably, the control signal does not entirely suppress theaudio portion of the programming. Rather the control signal overlays theprogramming so that the programming is uninterrupted. As a result, thecontrol signals are audible to the user which also provides an audiblecue or warning to the user that one or more operating parameters oftreadmill 12 is about to change. Alternatively, the control signals areinaudible to the user, but may be analyzed by computer 14 and/ortreadmill 12. The inaudible signals may, therefore, dictate anadditional or alternate manner by which the user is signaled of animpending change in one or more operating parameters of treadmill 12.For example, in addition to an audio signal, the control signal mayinclude a video signal, such as a flashing red border that may appeararound the exterior perimeter of the video output device 94 and overlapthe video display to inform the user of a change in operating parametersof treadmill 12. It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that acombination of both audio and video indicators, whether or not theprogramming is modified, such as the audio being eliminated, or thevideo being eliminated, may be used to inform the user of an impendingchange in operating parameters.

As alluded to above, the control signals are detectable by computer 14or treadmill 12, that verifies the control signal has the proper 2 kHzcarrier frequency, checks to make sure that the control signals areotherwise properly formatted, and checks for errors. If the signal isapproved, the signal is delivered to the appropriate controllers forvarying the operating parameters of treadmill 12.

Generally, the operation of communication system 18 varies depending onthe particular manner by which the programming is to be delivered to theuser on treadmill 12. In one configuration, treadmill 20 is similarlyconfigured to treadmill 12, previously described. In such a case, whenan individual wishes to perform an exercise program in real-time with adistantly located trainer training on treadmill 20, the trainer,preceding the scheduled exercise time, accesses or “logs on” tocommunication system 18. Upon logging onto communication system 18, thetrainer prepares the desired exercise program or alternatively selects astored control signal profile that is synchronized to the desiredprogram from memory 194 and/or external memory 196. At the scheduledtime for a live-on-live treadmill exercise program, both the user oftreadmill 12 and the trainer located at treadmill 20 accessescommunication system 18. The trainer activates the control signalprofile, which is delivered to control processor 192. Control processor192 delivers to both treadmill 12 and treadmill 20 both the audio and/orvideo programming and the desired control signals to vary the operatingparameters of each treadmill 12, 20 in synchronization with the audioand/or video programming. Control processor 192, optionally incombination with interfaces 190, 198 prepares, the control signals withthe audio and video signals in accordance with the communicationprotocol that computer 14, translator device 13, treadmill 12 and/ortreadmill 20 uses. Alternatively, control processor 192 may delivercontrol signals to treadmill 12 to vary the operating parametersthereof, while sending an audio and/or video representation of theexercise profile (i.e., speed, distance, time, inclination of theexercise device) of the exercise program delivered to the user, so thatthe trainer may then manually vary the operating parameters of treadmill20 as desired. The delivery of the programming including the controlsignal may be termed a packetized second signal (preferably a packetizedsecond real time signal).

In one embodiment, changes made by the trainer on treadmill 20 aretranslated into control signals that are delivered to treadmill 12 tovary the operating parameters therein. As such, treadmill 20 includesone or more sensors that identify changes made to the operatingparameters of treadmill 20 and deliver signals representative of suchchanges to control processor 192. Upon receiving the sensed information,control processor 192 delivers a request to control signal generator200. Control signal generator 200 subsequently generates a controlsignal associated with the actions taken by the trainer on treadmill 20and passes those signals through control processor 192, interface 190,and optionally computer 14 to treadmill 12. The delivery of theprogramming including the control signal may be termed a packetizedsecond signal or a packetized second real time signal.

In still yet another configuration, treadmill 20 is configured toinclude control signal generator 200. In this particular configuration,as a trainer performs a programming workout, whether such programming isstored on treadmill 20 or alternatively accessed through communicationsystem 18, control signal generator 200 creates the bursts of bytes inaccordance with changes made by the trainer on treadmill 20. As such,the control signals are sent from treadmill 20 through interface 198 tocontrol processor 192. Control processor 192 then passes the controlsignals along with the audio and video programming, through interface190 to treadmill 12. The delivery of the programming including thecontrol signal may be termed a packetized second signal (preferably realtime).

It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art, that the variousabove-described configurations are only illustrative of the manner bywhich treadmill 20 may control the operation of treadmill 12 eitherdirectly or alternatively indirectly through the use of control signalgenerator 200 and the other components and modules of communicationsystem 18.

Following hereinafter, and depicted in FIG. 9, is a functional blockdiagram of one embodiment of treadmill 12. In this particularconfiguration, the functionality of personal computer 14 is notincorporated within treadmill 12; however, as may be appreciated by oneskilled in the art, computer 14 may be incorporated within control panel22 or other portions of treadmill 12. This embodiment enables trueinteractive communication between a user operating treadmill 12 in hisor her own home, and a personal trainer located at a remote location,such as where treadmill 20 is located. Additionally, the trainer mayobserve the user in real-time and control the user's treadmill 12remotely and in real-time via communication system 18 withoutinterrupting the real-time audio and video programming.

As shown, treadmill 12 includes control panel 22 and treadmillcontroller 56. Although shown separated, it may be appreciated thatportions of each may be combined together, thereby simplifying themodules and components of the present invention. Control panel 22, inthis embodiment, incorporates audio input device 90 in the form of amicrophone and a video input device 92 in the form of a video camera forgathering audio and video signals to be transmitted to communicationsystem 18. As mentioned previously, the audio and video receivers neednot be incorporated within control panel 22 or other portion oftreadmill 12. Rather, audio input device 90 and video input device 92may be located distant from treadmill 12, while having sufficientdetection controls to receive the requisite audio and video signals.

Signals from audio input device 90 and video input device 92 aredelivered to an audio/video controller 212. Audio/video controller 212is configured to manipulate the audio and video signals received frominput devices 90, 92 in preparation for transmission to a processor 214.Audio/video controller 212, therefore, includes one or more amplifiers,micro-controllers, central processing units, state machines,programmable logic arrays, network local logical arrays, or gates, ASICprocessors, software based controllers, combination logic, orcombinations thereof to both manipulate audio and video signals that areto be transmitted or received by input devices 90, 92 and associatedoutput devices 94, 96. Additionally, audio/video controller 212 mayinclude memory, such as a buffer, to store and aid with real-timetransmission and delivery of the audio and video signals. It may beappreciated by one skilled in the art that various audio/videocontrollers 212 are applicable and known in the art in light of theteaching contained herein.

Communicating with audio/video controller 212 is processor 214.Processor 214 converts the audio and video data received throughaudio/video controller 212 into the desired form that is capable ofbeing transmitted to communication system 18 via communication interface210. As such, processor 214 may perform various operations on the datato be delivered to communication system 18, such as but not limited to,packing, encrypting, splitting, and the like. Additionally, processor214 may be configured to perform various operations to data receivedfrom communication system 18, such as but not limited to the reverse ofthe above operations. Generally, processor 214 may have variousconfigurations to perform the above-described function as known by oneskilled in the art. For example, processor 214 may take the form of oneor more micro-controllers, central processing unit (CPU), statemachines, programmable logic arrays, or network of logical gates, ASICprocessor, software-based controllers, a combination of thesecomponents, or a variety of other controllers.

According to another aspect of the present invention, processor 214 mayreceive various inputs from one or more manually operated input devices216, such as manual override button 84, scaling controls 84, and othercontrols and buttons known to one skilled in the art in light of theteaching contained herein. In response to such inputs, processor 214 mayvary the operating parameters of treadmill 12 and provide the user withnotification of such changes in the operating parameters of treadmill 12via output devices 218 and/or video output device 94 and audio outputdevice 96. Processor 214, therefore, is one structure capable ofperforming the function of means for controlling the operatingparameters of the exercise mechanism in real-time and one structurecapable of performing the function of control means for receiving one ormore packetized control signals from a communication system indicativeof a selected exercise program and changing one or more operatingparameters of the exercise mechanism based upon the selected exerciseprogram and the one or more packetized control signals.

Communicating with processor 214, in one embodiment, is communicationinterface 210 that enables treadmill 12 to transceive data, such aspacketized data, via a communication line. Communication interface 210,in one embodiment, is a modem. Depending on the particular communicationmanner used to communicate with communication system 18, differentcommunication interfaces 210 may be used at different communication lineconnections. For example, the communication line connection may includeexisting broadcast technology, including television broadcast over theairwaves, cable or cable modems, satellite, telephone lines, whetheranalog or digitally based, the Internet, DSL, G-Lite, wirelesstechnology, other high-speed data connections, or any other suitabletransmission technology or medium. As such, communication interface 210is compatible with existing conventional broadcast technologies and caninterface with existing audio and/or video components commonly found inhomes, thereby reducing the overall cost of the exercise device andreducing barriers to accessing communication system 18.

Communicating with processor 214 and optionally communicating withcommunication interface 210 is treadmill controller 56. As illustratedin FIG. 9, treadmill controller 56 communicates with control panel 22.Generally, treadmill controller 56 may communicate with control panel 22by an I²C bus, an SPI bus, a microwire bus, a microbus, and the like.

In one embodiment, treadmill controller 56 includes a treadmillprocessor 220, memory 222, and a control signal decoder 224. Treadmillprocessor 220 is configured to control the operation of speed motor 226and incline motor 228 that controls the speed and incline of treadmill12. Treadmill processor 220, therefore, is one structure capable ofperforming the function of means for controlling the operatingparameters of the exercise mechanism in real-time and one structurecapable of performing the function of control means for receiving one ormore packetized control signals from a communication system indicativeof a selected exercise program and changing one or more operatingparameters of the exercise mechanism based upon the selected exerciseprogram and the one or more packetized control signals.

Treadmill processor 220 is optionally controlled by processor 214 or bycontrol signal decoder 224 in response to the various signals receivedthrough communication interface 210 from communication system 18.Alternatively, treadmill processor 220 may be controlled by signalsobtained from memory 222, via input devices 216, audio input device 90and video input device 92. Treadmill processor 220 may include variouscomponents and modules to perform the desired function. For example,treadmill processor 220 may include one or more micro-controllers,central processing unit (CPU), state machines, programmable logicarrays, or network of logical gates, ASIC processor, software-basedcontrollers, combination logic, a combination of these components, or avariety of other controllers.

Controller 212, processor 214, interface 210, and treadmill processor220 are collectively and individually examples of structures capable ofperforming the function of communicating means, communicating with theinterface means, for receiving a packetized second signal, andoptionally, for enabling transmission of the first signal.

Both processor 214 and treadmill processor 220 are capable of receivingand transmitting feedback signals from the various elements of treadmill12, for example, feedback from speed motor 226 and incline motor 228.Each processor 214, 220 is capable of converting the feedback signalsinto signals for the video output device 94 or monitor 166 communicatingwith computer 14. The particular feedback signals received from speedmotor 226 and incline motor 228 may be stored in registers or memorymodules.

Treadmill 12, as depicted, optionally includes one or more sensors, suchas belt speed sensor 230 and incline sensor 232. Each sensor 230, 232gathers a particular operating parameter of treadmill 12 (speed of belt42 (FIG. 4) and incline of tread base 26), such that control panel 22may present outputs via the output devices that are indicative of thepresent operating state of treadmill 12 at any given point in time.Treadmill 12 can include various other sensors that track the operatingparameters of the treadmill. For instance, sensors to track (i) amperedraw by speed motor 226, incline motor 228, control panel 22, and thelike; (ii) tension of belt 42; (iii) thickness of the wear layer of belt42; (iv) number of hours treadmill 12 has operated; (v) equivalentnumber of miles for which treadmill 12 has been used; (vi) number ofhours remaining before scheduled maintenance based upon usage and/orpast maintenance date; (vii) treadmill power usage; (viii) operatingstatus and efficiency of the various components of treadmill 12; (ix)weight of the user to allow processor 214 and/or treadmill processor 220to vary the operating parameters of treadmill 12 to accommodate heavierusers; (x) voltage input and output to circuit boards and power boardsupon which various components of treadmill 12 are installed; (xi) andthe like.

Similarly, treadmill 12 may include other sensors that gather variousother operating parameters, such as but not limited to, maximum pulseand heart rate, average pulse and heart rate, target heart rate, lengthof workout session, and the like. Additionally, sensors 230, 232,optionally in combination with one or more other sensors, may determinewhether an individual is actually exercising on treadmill 12 and delivera feedback signal to processor 214 that informs communication system 18and/or the trainer. Furthermore, sensors 230, 232, optionally incombination with one or more other sensors, may calculate whether theindividual is a juvenile and stop treadmill 12 in the event that theuser is a juvenile.

As implied above, since processor 214 and optionally treadmill processor220 can communicate with communication system 18, thereby allowingtreadmill 12 to communicate with communication system 18, any sensedoperating parameters of treadmill 12 or the exercising user can beuploaded to communication system 18 for analysis and storage.Subsequently, communication system 18, whether automatically or with theaid of a trainer or other personnel can analyze the data and providefeedback to the user of treadmill 12. For instance, when a scheduledmaintenance date approaches, communication system 18 can provide awarning to the user through video output device 94 or via some othermanner, such as e-mail or a letter. Similarly, in a gym or spa setting,communication system 18 can inform the owner or operator of the gym orspa of pending maintenance problems with specific exercise devices, suchas the wear layer thickness becoming too small, while optionallyscheduling such maintenance for the particular exercise device. In thismanner, treadmill 12 can be remotely monitored by communication system18.

As discussed earlier, system 10 enables a user of treadmill 20 tocommunicate with and control one or more operating characteristics orparameters of treadmill 12. There are various manners by which treadmill12 may be controlled by communication system 18 solely or in combinationwith treadmill 20 or a third party, such as those just mentioned above.Following hereinafter is a continued discussion of the operation of theillustrated embodiment of treadmill 12 depicted in FIG. 9.

During operation of treadmill 12 a user initially inserts a dead-man key(not shown) within port 98 of control panel 22 (FIG. 6). Upon insertionof the dead-man key, treadmill 12 is capable of being operated, i.e.,power is allowed to flow to the various internal and external componentsof treadmill 12 and treadmill 12 has an active status. Once activated, auser may optionally connect to communication system 18 or use a storedor manually defined exercise program or workout. In the event that theuser wishes to connect to communication system 18, in one embodiment, auser activates iFit.com button 82 (FIG. 6), thereby initiating thehardware and/or software modules within either treadmill 12 or computer14 to create a connection with communication system 18. Alternatively,upon placing treadmill 12 in active status, treadmill 12 mayautomatically connect to communication system 18.

Once a link is achieved and a user optionally has provided password anduser identification, a user may select either stored or live-on-liveexercise programs. Following the user selection, programming, whetherlive or stored is delivered (optionally in real time) to communicationinterface 210 via one or more of a variety of communication lineconnections, whether such connections are digital, analog, serial,parallel, or a combination thereof. The particular configuration ofcommunication interface 210 may vary based upon the particularcommunication line connection used.

It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the exerciseprogram may be displayed to the user in a variety of manners, dependingon the particular signals received from communication system 18 ortrainer device 20. For example, the programming may include an exerciseprofile that periodically or continually appears on video output device94. Alternatively, the programming may solely include theabove-described exercise profile, thereby enabling the user of treadmill12 to view educational or entertainment programming via video outputdevice 94 during their exercise program.

Upon receiving the programming, communication interface 210 mayoptionally deliver the audio signal to control signal decoder 224 thatidentifies the control signal. In another setting, communicationinterface 210 may deliver both the audio and video signals, with thecontrol signal, to processor 214 for manipulation and distribution tothe appropriate hardware components, and/or software modules. Suchdelivery of programming may be performed through use of ageneral-purpose bus or a variety of other buses and protocols, such asan I²C bus, SPI bus, Microwire bus, Microbus, CAN protocol, home networkprotocol, or the like. Additionally, the control signals, and the audioand the video signals may be delivered using the CSAFE 1 protocol orequivalent thereof for various other types of devices not within thefield of exercise devices.

When communication interface 210 delivers all signals to processor 214,processor 214 separates the audio, video, and control signals andoptionally delivers them to audio/video controller 212, control signaldecoder 224, treadmill processor 220, or memory 222. For example, in oneconfiguration processor 214 may optionally deliver portions of the audioand video signals to control signal decoder 224, either directly orthrough treadmill processor 220 such that the audio and video signalsare “buffered” in accordance with “streaming” technology. If theavailable bandwidth does not allow real-time streaming of audio andvideo signals, video frames and the audio signals may be separated andtransceived so that a segmented display is provided with real-time audiosignals. Although segmenting of video frames is not preferred it is onepossible alternative method of streaming audio and video signals. Inanother configuration, upon receiving the signals from processor 214,control signal decoder 224 may optionally store the complete audio andvideo signals for an entire program before treadmill 12 may access suchsignals. In yet another configuration, processor 214 may optionallydeliver only the audio signal and the control signal to treadmillprocessor 220 that may include the functionality of control signaldecoder 224 therein. The particular manner by which treadmill processor220 retrieves either the encoded control signal or the decoded controlsignal may vary from configuration to configuration depending on theparticular form of treadmill 12.

Generally, control signal decoder 224 either individually orcollectively with processor 214 and/or treadmill processor 220 is onestructure capable of performing the function of means for decoding thecontrol signal having an input and an output. One skilled in the art mayidentify various other configurations of a means for decoding thecontrol signal having an input and an output. For example, treadmillprocessor 220 and/or processor 214 may include a control signal decoderand hence be a means for decoding the control signal having an input andan output.

Following manipulation of the control signals to obtain the controlinstructions, treadmill processor 220 performs the control process onthe various components of treadmill 12 as dictated by the controlinstructions. For example, treadmill processor 220 may cause motor 46 tospeed up thereby accelerating belt 42 or alternatively cause motor 60 torotate thereby raising or lowering tread base 26. Motors 46, 60 and 226,228 are structures capable of performing the function of means,electrically coupled to the output of the decoding means for driving themoveable element in response to the decoded control signal. It may beappreciated by one skilled in the art that the control instructions maycause various other changes to the operating parameters of treadmill 12,and other devices. Similarly, various means for driving the moveableelement in response to the decoded control signal. For example, themeans may vary depending on the particular type of exercise device used.

While treadmill processor 220 is either decoding the control signal fromthe audio signal received from communication system 18 or merelyactivating speed motor 226 and/or incline motor 228, processor 214delivers the audio and video signals received through communicationinterface 210 to audio/video controller 212. Audio/video controller 212manipulates the signals received and passes the audio signal to audiooutput device 96 and the video signal to video output device 94.Optionally, processor 214 may send portions of the audio or videosignals to the output devices 218 to provide the user with multiplesources of representations of the current operating parameters oftreadmill 12, or exercise device.

In another alternative configuration of the present invention, theaudio, video, and control signals received by communication interface210 are delivered to processor 214 for manipulation and delivery toaudio/video controller 212. In such a case, the video data is displayedon video output device 94 while the audio signal including the controlsignal is transmitted to audio output device 96. In this configuration,audio input device 90 or a second audio input device (not shown) isconfigured to receive various control signals that are delivered byaudio output device 96 and pass those back to processor 214. The controlsignals are subsequently decoded and treadmill processor 220 mayactivate speed motor 226 and/or incline motor 228 in accordance with thedelivered control signals.

Generally, communication interface 210, processor 214, audio/videocontroller 212, treadmill processor 220, and/or control signal decoder224 are collectively and individually examples of a controller,responsive to the packetized second signal, configured to control theoperating parameters of the exercise mechanism (preferably in realtime). Additionally, such controller is a structure capable ofperforming the function of control means, communicating with theexercise mechanism, for receiving one or more packetized control signalsfrom the communication system indicative of the selected exerciseprogram and for changing one or more operating parameters of theexercise mechanism based upon the selected exercise program and the oneor more packetized control signals. One skilled in the art canappreciate that the control means can have various other configurations.

Following hereinafter is a generalized discussion of a number offeatures of an exercise system, exercise devices, methods, computerproducts, and computer readable media associated with the teaching anddisclosure of the present invention. Referring now to FIGS. 10-19, asystem 250 is illustrated. The majority of the features described withrespect to system 10, also apply to system 250.

Generally, this embodiment of the present invention may comprise one ormore hardware components, such as those described above and illustratedin FIGS. 1, 7, and 10, and various special-purpose or general-purposecomputers. Embodiments within the scope of the present invention alsoinclude computer-readable media for carrying or havingcomputer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Suchcomputer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessedby a general-purpose or special-purpose computer and the hardware and/orsoftware modules associated with system 10 (FIG. 1). By way of example,and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM,EEPROM, CD-ROM, or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, orother magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which may be used tocarry or store desired program code means in the form ofcomputer-executable instructions or data structures and which may beaccessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. Wheninformation, such as one or more signals or programming is transferredor provided over network 16 or another communications connection (eitherhardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or wireless) totreadmill 12, translator device 13, computer 14, communication system18, and/or treadmill 20, such devices properly view the connection as acomputer-readable medium. Thus, any such a connection is properly termeda computer-readable medium. Combinations of the above should also beincluded within the scope of computer-readable media.Computer-executable instructions may include, for example, instructionsand data which cause a general-purpose computer, special-purposecomputer, or special-purpose processing device to perform a certainfunction or group of functions.

Although not required, the present invention will be described in thegeneral context of computer-executable instructions, such as programmodules, that may be executed by one or more computers in variousnetwork environments, such as within the environments illustrated inFIGS. 1, 7, and 10. Generally, program modules include routines,programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that performparticular tasks or implement particular abstract data types.Computer-executable instructions, associated data structures, andprogram modules represent examples of program code means for executingsteps of the methods disclosed herein. The particular sequence of suchexecutable instructions or associated data structures representsexamples of corresponding acts for implementing the functions describedin such steps.

According to this illustrative embodiment of the present invention, adistantly located personal trainer performing an exercise on onetreadmill in real-time may control one or more operating parameters ofan exercise device used by a user performing an exercise program.However, it may be appreciated that the systems, methods, and devices ofthe present invention may be implemented and utilized in various othersituations and with various other exercise devices or other devicesunrelated to exercise devices. The systems and methods of the presentinvention may be implemented using a variety of hardware and/or softwaremodules and include a variety of computer network configurations,including but not limited to multiple computers and/or exercise devicesthat are connected via the Internet, LANs, WANs, and the like.

To more easily explain the functions and structures of system 250,reference will now be made to FIG. 10 that is a block diagramillustrating one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, system250, that is similar to system 10, includes a number of user modules 252a-252 n that represent, in this embodiment, multiple exercise devices,translator devices 13, and/or computers 14, whether such exercisedevices, translator devices 13, and/or computers 14 are located in thesame area, or distantly located one from another, such as at a number ofuser's homes. Alternatively, as discussed earlier, user modules 252a-252 n may take the form of various other devices known by one skilledin the art. For example, the exercise devices may include treadmill 12,ellipticals, cycles, steppers, hikers, climbers, Nordic type exercisedevices, and other various types of exercise devices as known by oneskilled in art.

Generally, user modules 252 a-252 n include one or more exercisemechanisms with one or more moveable elements that enable a user toexercise during an exercise program, whether such exercise programrequires anaerobic exercise, aerobic exercise, or a combination thereof.Therefore, the modules of each user modules 252 a-252 n may bestructures capable of performing the functions of: (1) control means forreceiving one or more packetized control signals from the communicationsystem (communication module) indicative of a selected exercise programand changing one or more operating parameters of the exercise mechanismbased upon the selected exercise program and the packetized controlsignals; (2) interface means, communicating with the exercise mechanism,for gathering a first real-time signal from the user; (3) communicatingmeans, communicating with the interface means, for receiving apacketized second signal, and optionally, for enabling transmission ofthe first signal; (4) means for reproducing the second signal; (5) meansfor controlling the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism; (6)means for decoding the control signals; and (7) means for driving themoveable element in response to the decoded control signals.

In one embodiment, user modules 252 a-252 n communicate with acommunication module 254, via network 16. In one embodiment,communication module 254 has a similar configuration to that ofcommunication system 18 and is capable of transmitting and receivingdata from user modules 252 a-252 n. As such, communication module 254 isable to “transceive” information and data to and from the variousmodules, components, and other hardware and/or software modules ofsystem 250.

Generally, in one illustrative embodiment, communication module 254 isconfigured to act as an intermediary module between user modules 252a-252 n and the various other modules of system 250. Communicationmodule 254, therefore, enables user modules 252 a-252 n to communicatewith and select one or more exercise programs, whether based on alive-on-live request or recorded exercise programs. The structures andfunctions related to communication module 254 will be discussed ingreater detail hereinafter.

Optionally communicating with communication module 254 is one or moretrainer modules 256 a-256 n. As illustrated, communication module 254 isdirectly communicating with trainer modules 256 a-256 n. Alternatively,trainer modules 256 a-256 n may communicate with user modules 252 a-nthrough network 16, therefore enabling user modules 252 a-252 n tocommunicate with trainer modules 256 a-256 n through network 16 withoutinteracting with communication module 254, such as illustrated in FIG.1, where a user treadmill 12 may communicate directly with a trainertreadmill 20.

Trainer modules 256 a-256 n, in one illustrative embodiment, include thestructures and functions of treadmill 20. Generally, trainer modules 256a-256 n include one or more exercise mechanisms with one or moremoveable elements that enable an individual to exercise during anexercise program, whether such exercise program requires anaerobicexercise, aerobic exercise, or a combination thereof. Additionally,trainer modules 256 a-256 n are configured to enable a trainer, whethera physical therapist, personal trainer, or the like to perform anexercise program substantially simultaneously with or withoutsubstantial delay with users exercising through user modules 252 a-252n. Furthermore, trainer modules 256 a-256 n may include hardware and/orsoftware modules and components that enable trainer modules 256 a-256 nto control the exercise devices incorporated within user modules 252a-252 n, such as treadmill 12. As such, trainer modules 256 a-256 n mayinclude various exercise devices commonly known by one skilled in theart, and various hardware and/or software modules that enable thetrainer to vary each user modules 252 a-252 n, whether individually,collectively, or subsets of the entire group of user modules 252 a-252n.

It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that trainer modules 256a-256 n may take various other configurations as known by one skilled inthe art, in view of the teaching contained herein. For example, althoughtrainer modules 256 a-256 n are depicted herein, trainer modules 256a-256 n may be substituted for one or more additional user modules 252a-252 n. Therefore, system 250 may enable multiple users to interact onewith another through network 16, without the capability to control oneanother. As referenced previously, it may be understood that system 10may also enable multiple users to interact one with another throughnetwork 16, without the capability to control one another.

Optionally communicating with communication module 254 is a third partymodule 258. Third party module 258, in one embodiment, enables somethird party such as an additional personal trainer, medical provider,development team, and the like to view the current exercise program,while having the ability to control various operating properties of usermodules 252 a-252 n and/or trainer modules 256 a-256 n. For example, ina health club setting, third party module 258 may take the form of aconsole operated by an individual who is able to control the operatingparameters of one or more exercise devices (e.g., during a spinningclass), whether operated by a trainer or user, during an exerciseprogram. It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that variousother configurations of third party module 258 are applicable and knownto one skilled in the art, in view of the teachings contained herein.

Through the illustrative configuration of control system 250 depicted inFIG. 10, a user performing various exercise activities through usermodules 252 a-252 n may communicate with trainers using trainer modules256 a-256 n in real-time communication. Additionally, one of usermodules 252 a-252 n may communicate with another of user modules 252a-252 n without communicating with one of trainer modules 256 a-256 n.

Generally, communication module 254 may act as and take the form of aserver, with associated hardware and/or software modules to enablecommunication between the various modules of the illustrated system 250.As such, user modules 252 a-252 n, trainer modules 256 a-256 n, andthird party modules 258 may be considered clients of communicationmodule 254. Alternatively, a separate server or a server network,illustrated in dotted lines and referenced by numeral 260 maycommunicate with communication module 254, with server 260 performingsome or all of the functions of communication module 254 and the othermodules described herein. In such a case, communication module 254 actsas a client. Generally, user modules 252 a-252 n, communication module254, trainer modules 256 a-256 n, and third party module 258 maycommunicate one with another, via various communication line connectionsas discussed herein and known to one skilled in the art in light of theteaching contained herein.

Reference is now made to FIG. 11, which is a more detailed schematicdiagram of system 250. For ease of explanation, FIG. 11 only shows oneuser module 252 and one trainer module 256; however it may beappreciated by one skilled in the art that a similar discussion may bemade for multiple users and trainer modules 252, 256 respectively.Further, third party module 258 and server module 260 are not depicted,but one skilled in the art may appreciate that a similar discussion canbe made with respect to the components and modules forming such modulesin light of the discussion contained herein.

As shown, in one embodiment, user module 252 includes a user interface262. User interface 262 enables a user utilizing the beneficialcharacteristics of user module 252 to engage and give commands theretowith respect to various operating parameters of user module 252. Forexample, user interface 262 may include one or more interface devices asdiscussed previously, such as one or more audio and video input devices90, 92, output devices 68 a, 70 a, 72 a, 74 a, 76 a, and 80 a, and oneor more audio and video output devices 94, 96 as described earlierherein. Therefore, user interface 262 enables the user to visuallyand/or audibly communicate with the trainer manipulating personaltrainer module 256, various other stored programming, or other users.Consequently, user interface 262 may incorporate various structures andfunctions of treadmill 12, and more specifically control panel 22.Furthermore, user interface 262 may incorporate various portions oftranslator device 13 and computer 14, such as but not limited to monitor166, keyboard 160, mouse 162, and the like. User interface 262 is onestructure capable of performing the function of interface means forgathering a first real-time signal from the user and also means forreproducing the second signal from the trainer.

It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that user interface 262and hence the interface means may take various forms or configurationsto perform the desired function thereof. For example, user interface 262and interface means may be a voice activated interface, a touchsensitive interface, an automatic monitoring system, such as a systemthat monitors heart rate, blood pressure, and the like and various othermeasurable parameters of user module 252 and a user exercising throughuser module 252.

User interface 262, in one embodiment, communicates with exercise module264, such as treadmill or other mechanisms having a movable element.Exercise module 264 includes various hardware and software componentsthat enable an individual to obtain aerobic exercise, anaerobicexercise, combinations thereof, or the like exercise program. Forexample, in one embodiment exercise module 264 is treadmill 12 withcomputer 14 and translator device 13. Alternatively, exercise module 264is treadmill 12 with components of computer 14 and translator device 13therein.

It may be appreciated that the various modules related to user module252 may be incorporated within exercise module 264, or more specificallywithin treadmill 12 or some other device. In another configuration,exercise module 264 includes a movable element, such as belt 42, thatallows the user to exercise. In yet another configuration, exercisemodule 264 may incorporate the structure and functionality associatedwith user interface 262 therein.

Communicating with exercise module 264 is a data storage module 266.Data storage module 266, in one embodiment is a database of operatingparameters for exercise module 264 with respect to one or more exerciseprograms. As such, data storage module 266 may be an ASIC chip,programmable ROM, CD-ROM, EEPROM, PCMCIA card, compact flash card, flashbios, dynamic memory, magnetic storage disk, optical storage media, orthe like. Additionally, data storage module 266 may be a hierarchal,relational, or other typical database, including related databasemanagement systems (not shown). Generally, data storage module 266contains the data and information to operate exercise module 264 inaccordance with a selected program by a user operating user module 252or alternatively to perform the necessary exercise program designated bythe operator of training module 256. Furthermore, data storage module266 may store programming retrieved from communication module 254 inpreparation for activation of exercise module 264 upon a request from auser, communication module 254, or trainer module 256. Data storagemodule 266 may be incorporated within exercise module 264 such as whenuser interface 262, exercise module 264, and data storage module 266 arepart of treadmill 12, whether or not translator device 13 and/orcomputer 14 is integrally formed therewith.

Communicating with exercise module 264 is a safety module 268. Safetymodule 268 optionally communicates with data storage module 266. Safetymodule 268 is intermediate between an interface module 270 and exercisemodule 264 and controls the data transferred through network 16 fromcommunication module 254. As such, safety module 268 tracks theinformation delivered from communication module 254 and automaticallyengages a program stored within data storage module 266 upondisengagement of the connection with communication module 254 throughinterface module 270, thereby delivering one or more safety signals toexercise module 264. Alternatively, safety module 268 may maintain theoperating parameters of exercise module 264 at the same level as beforedisengagement of user module 252 from communication module 254, therebysending safety signals that maintain the operating parameters ofexercise module 264 at the same level as before interruption of theprogramming. In yet another configuration, safety module 268 sends oneor more safety signals that slowly decrease all the operating parametersof exercise module 264 to either a user defined or communication module254 defined base level or to zero upon disengagement of user module 252from communication module 254. In still another configuration, safetymodule 268 maintains the current operating parameters of exercise module264, such as treadmill 12, while allowing a user of exercise module 264to view such operating parameters and manipulate or change the sameusing user interface 262, such as speed controls 72, incline controls74, time controls 68, distance controls 70, a start button 76, and astop or pause button 78, as illustrated in FIG. 6. As such, safetymodule 268 may include various hardware and/or software components andmodules necessary to perform the desired function, such as but notlimited to a buffer to store programming received from communicationmodule 254. Therefore, safety module 268 is one example of a safetymechanism that is capable of manipulating the operating parameters ofthe exercise mechanism in the event that a packetized second controlsignal is interrupted. As such, a safety mechanism may generate one ormore safety signals to operate the exercise mechanism, as discussedherein. Safety module 268 is another example of a communicatingmechanism of the present invention.

Interface module 270, connected to safety module 268, manipulates theinformation and data transceived through user interface 262, whethersuch data is to be delivered to exercise module 264 or for delivery tocommunication module 254 through network 16. As such, interface module270 performs various operations on the data, such as but not limited toencrypting data, decrypting data, buffering data, packetizing data,depacketizing data, and the like. Interface module 270 is one example ofa communicating mechanism, communicating with the interface, thecommunicating mechanism enabling real-time transmission of the firstsignal to a trainer, the communicating mechanism receiving a packetizedsecond real-time signal. In addition, interface module 270 is an exampleof structure capable of performing the function of a communicatingmeans, communicating with the interface means, for receiving apacketized second signal, and optionally, for enabling transmission ofthe first signal.

It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that there are variousother configurations of interface module 270 and hence communicatingmeans. For example, interface module 270 may facilitate communication ofdata between one or more users rather than between user module 252 andtrainer module 256.

Generally, each of the modules referenced as being included within usermodule 252 may be integrally formed with treadmill 12 or exercise module264. Those modules may, alternatively, be added to or installed withinan existing exercise device to allow the same to communicate withcommunication module 254. Therefore, the particular functions of each ofthe modules referenced within user module 252 may vary depending on theparticular characteristics and properties of the exercise device.Similarly, user module 252 may include various other modules that may beappropriate, as understood and may be identified by one skilled in theart.

User interface 262, safety module 268, data storage module 266, and/orinterface module 270 are examples of a controller, responsive to thepacketized second real-time signal, configured to control the operatingparameters of the exercise mechanism (or exercise module) in real time.Additionally, such controller is a structure capable of performing thefunction of control means, communicating with the exercise mechanism (orexercise module), for receiving one or more packetized control signalsfrom the communication system (or communication module) indicative ofthe selected exercise program and for changing one or more operatingparameters of the exercise mechanism (or exercise module) based upon theselected exercise program and the one or more packetized controlsignals. One skilled in the art can appreciate that the control meansmay have various other configurations.

Communicating with user module 252 via network 16 is communicationmodule 254. As shown, communication module 254 includes a communicationuser interface module 272 that transceives data, such as audio, video,and control signals between user module 252 and communication module254. Communication user interface module 272 may have various forms,such as but not limited to those described herein with respect tointerface 190. Additionally, communication user interface module 272 mayinclude various hardware and/or software modules and components toencrypt data, decrypt data, buffer data, packetize data, and depacketizedata, and the like.

Communicating with communication user interface module 272 is controlmodule 274 that may have a similar configuration and function to controlprocessor 192 in FIG. 8. Control module 274 performs many of thefunctions recited with respect to control processor 192, in that controlmodule 274: (1) manipulates the data to be transmitted to user module252, (2) enables the user to select one of a plurality of differentprograms, whether such programs are stored or live, such as those storedin memory 278, (3) requests the creation of control signals by controlsignal generation module 282 which may be synchronized with the exerciseprograms, (4) transmits data between one or more user modules 252,between one or more user modules 252 and trainer module 256 viacommunication trainer interface module 276, between one or more usermodules 252 and/or third party module 258, and the like.

Additionally, control module 274 may access data that is stored in oneor more memory modules: memory 194 and external memory 196, such as thedata retrieved from user module 252. Consequently, control module 274may analyze data sensed by sensors that track the operating parametersof the user module 252. For instance, the data can be representative of(i) the ampere draw by various components of user module 252; (ii) thetension of the belt of user module 252; (iii) thickness of the wearlayer of the belt; (iv) the number of hours user module 252 hasoperated; (v) equivalent number of miles for which user module 252 hasbeen used; (vi) number of hours remaining before scheduled maintenancebased upon usage and/or past maintenance date; (vii) treadmill powerusage; (viii) operating status and efficiency of the various componentsof user module 252; (ix) weight of the exercising user, resulting inprocessor 214 and/or treadmill processor 220 varying the operatingparameters of user module 252 to accommodate the heavier user; (x)voltage input and output to various components of user module 252; (xi)and the like.

In response to analyzing the above data, control module 274, whetherautomatically or with the aid of trainer module 256, third party module258, server module 260 and/or other personnel can provide feedback tothe exercising user and/or change the operating parameters of usermodule 252. For instance, control module 274 can proscribe maintenance,stop user module 252 from operating, warn the user through video outputdevice 94 or via some other manner, such as e-mail or a letter ofproblems with user module 252, in a gym or spa setting, inform the owneror operator of the gym or spa of pending maintenance problems withspecific exercise devices, and optionally schedule maintenance for theparticular exercise device, and the like.

Furthermore, control module 274, may automatically disconnect datacommunication between user module 252 and communication module 254 whenthe movable element of exercise module 264 is stopped by the user. Forexample, in a gym type setting, once an individual connects tocommunication module 254, and/or communication system 18, control module274 provides access to communication module 254 with associatedprogramming. As a user exercises, control module 274 tracks the activestatus of the movable element of exercise module 264 to determinewhether the user is continually exercising. When the user activates,through user interface 262, stop/pause button 78 (FIG. 6), controlmodule 274 disconnects the user from communication module 254.Furthermore, control module 274 clears the temporary data file stored indata storage module 266 of user module 252 and may also clear thetemporary data files stored in communication module 254 that relate tothe particular user. In this way, control module 274 prepares usermodule 252 and communication module 254 for use by subsequent users.Although the above discussion is directed to control module 274, it maybe appreciated by one skilled in the art the control processor 192 mayperform the same function with control processor's hardware and/orsoftware modules and components.

Control signal generation module 282 may have a similar configuration tothat of control signal generator 200 (FIG. 8), so long as control signalgeneration module 282 is capable of creating one or more control signalsthat may be synchronized with the audio and video signals retrieved frommemory 194, 196 or received through communication with trainer interfacemodule 276 from trainer module 256.

Trainer module 256 has substantially the same configuration as that ofuser module 252. Therefore, trainer module 256 includes an interfacemodule 284 for transceiving data between trainer module 256 andcommunication module 254. Communicating with interface module 284 is anexercise module 286 and optionally a data storage module 288.Furthermore, trainer module 256 includes a trainer interface 290 thatenables a trainer to input various exercise parameters to change theoperating parameters of user module 252. Trainer interface 290,therefore, may include the various input devices recited previously withrespect to user module 252 and/or treadmill 12.

Trainer module 256 optionally includes a control signal generationmodule 292. Control signal generation module 292 enables trainer module256 to generate control signals that are synchronized with the audioand/or video signals that are transmitted from trainer module 256 touser module 252. Control signal generation module 292, therefore, issubstantially the same as control signal generation module 282.

The synchronization of the audio and/or video signals with the controlsignals may be achieved in a variety of different manners. For example,in one embodiment of such synchronization, the audio and/or videosignals indicate that the treadmill speed will move from 1 mile per hourto 5 miles per hour. The control signal may not automatically move thespeed to 5 miles per hour, but may instead ramp gradually from 1 mileper hour to 5 miles per hour. Optionally, the control signal andvideo/audio signals are synchronized such that the exercise devicesubstantially instantaneously increases the speed of the treadmill uponreceipt of a message requesting such an increase in the treadmill'sspeed.

Following hereinafter is a discussion of the various optional modulesthat may be incorporated within communication module 254, in addition tothose discussed earlier. It may be appreciated by one skilled in theart, that communication module 254 includes the typical user interfacesand communication interfaces for enabling one of user modules 252 a-252n to communicate with training modules 256 a-256 n and optionallyanother of user modules 252 a-252 n. Generally, therefore, communicationmodule 254 includes various other functional modules. Additionally, thefollowing discussion describes various functions of communication system18 and its interaction with a user at treadmill 12, computer 14,translator device 13, third party 21, and/or a trainer at treadmill 20.

As shown in FIG. 12, communication module 254 (FIG. 11) includes, in oneembodiment, an iFit.com website 300 that acts as both an interface withthe user, while also controlling the operation of user modules 252 a-252n and/or trainer modules 256 a-256 n. As such, iFit.com website 300 isin communication with a number of various other modules forming oneembodiment of communication module 254. Each module depicted mayrepresent functionality included within communication module 254, whilerepresenting structural hardware and/or software modules that may eitherbe incorporated within the hardware and software modules of iFit.comwebsite 300, or alternatively, accessible by the hardware and softwaremodules forming iFit.com website 300.

Generally, the iFit.com website 300 is hosted on one or more computers,whether a general-purpose or special-purpose computer, that may have theform of computer 14, or any variation thereof known by one skilled inthe art in view of the teaching contained herein. As such, the hardwareand software modules forming iFit.com website 300 may include thoselisted herein with reference to computer 14. As depicted in theillustrative configuration of FIG. 12, iFit.com website 300 may includelogin-registration module 302, audio program module 304, video programmodule 306, health information module 308, consumer purchase module 310,personal training module 312, competition module 314, diagnostic module318, program generation module 318, advertising module 320, and linksmodule 322.

According to one aspect of the present invention, communication module254 includes a login-registration module 302 that is accessible viaiFit.com website 300. Login-registration module 302 is configured toobtain the necessary registration and login information from a userwishing to use communication module 254 and the various audio/video andliterary information contained therein, with their exercise device.Consequently, login-registration module 302 provides access to theappropriate areas of iFit.com website 300 and also to the particularportions of memory 278 containing data associated with the particularuser gaining access to iFit.com website 300.

Referring now to FIG. 13, a flow diagram illustrating the operation oflogin-registration module 302 is depicted. Initially, login-registrationmodule 302 identifies whether the user has logged into the communicationmodule 254 before, as represented by decision block 330. In the eventthat the user is accessing or “logging in” to iFit.com website 300 forthe first time, login-registration module 302 gathers the userinformation, as shown by block 332. Specifically, login-registrationmodule 302 may gather the user's name, age, sex, type of exerciseequipment being used, and various other data unique to the user.Additionally, login-registration module 302 may present the user withmultiple questions to obtain statistical information regarding theuser's background, education, work experience, income, hobbies, andother related information to aid operators of communication module 254and system 250 in providing greater instructional information to theuser. Furthermore, such statistical information may also be used intargeting specific advertisement to the individual during an exerciseprogram.

As information is gathered from the user, payment information, such ascredit card numbers, accounts, and the like may further be obtained fromthe user. Alternatively, as depicted in FIG. 12, the step of obtainingpayment information may follow the gathering of the user information, asshown by block 334. Once all the necessary information is gathered,login-registration module 302 assists the user in defining a login useridentification number (user ID) and password that are unique to theparticular user, as depicted by block 336. Upon defining the userpassword and user ID communication module 254 stores the informationwithin a memory of communication module 254 and optionally user module252. The user is subsequently asked to login to communication module254.

Following the logging in procedure, the user is given access, asdepicted by block 340, to communication module 254 to the specific levelthat they are allowed, based upon their responses to the variousquestions asked during the login procedure. For example, if a userdefines the exercise device as a treadmill located at home, the user maybe limited to only the treadmill related web pages of iFit.com website300. Similarly, if a user does not define any account information theuser may be limited to only the free web pages and information availablethereon, while being restricted to access the fee-based web pages, suchas to purchase exercise profiles, exercise equipment, and the like.

Referring again to decision block 330, if a user accesses communicationmodule 254 for a second or any other subsequent times, decision block330 is in the negative, and login-registration module 302 gathers theuser ID and password from the user, as depicted by block 342. Upongathering the user ID and password, login-registration module 302verifies the user ID and password with the stored user ID and password,as represented by block 344. Subsequently, login-registration module 302either rejects access to communication module 254 or alternativelyallows access thereto with the specific level of access, as shown byblocks 346 and 340, such as to a particular portion of memory 278designated for use by the users.

It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art, that various otherfunctionality and structures might form login module 302. For example,login-registration module 302 may incorporate various processors,micro-controllers, logic circuits, and the like to analyze and store theinformation input during a login process. In one configuration,login-registration module 302 may communicate with user module 252during the login process to verify that the exercise device used by theuser is the same as previously indicated by the user during previouslogins. In the event that the exercise device differs, whether by type,model or the like, login-registration module 302 may cause communicationmodule 254 to either prompt the user to change the stored logininformation, thereby varying the access to the various programs, orautomatically change the login information and associated access inlight of the changed exercise device.

In another configuration, login-registration module 302 may be aseparate hardware and/or software module or component that is locateddistantly from the hardware and/or software components or modules ofcommunication module 254. In still other configurations,login-registration module 302 may be further adapted to storeinformation regarding the use of exercise equipment. For example,login-registration module 302 or some other module of communicationmodule 254 may track the amount of time that a user spends exercising ona particular type of exercise device, thereby determining a user'sexercising preferences.

Furthermore, login-registration module 302 may track the particularlocations where the user trains to identify a user profile of the user'sexercise activities throughout the United States of America or theworld. Such information may then be used to provide the user withspecific information related to those locations where the user exercisesmost. For example, the user may receive targeted advertising to exerciseand non-exercise related businesses or services within the city or stateof the place where the individual commonly visits or exercises.

Referring back to FIG. 12 communication module 254 includes an audioprogram module 304. Generally, audio program module 304 is configured toprovide the user with multiple selections of audio programs that areavailable for particular types of exercise devices. Additionally, audioprogram module 304 allows the user to purchase copies of the audioprograms that may be performed on line.

As depicted in FIG. 14, audio program module 304 allows the user toselect from various types of exercise devices with associated audioprograms. As illustrated, audio program may have separate informationfor treadmills, ellipticals, cycles, steppers, hikers, climbers, Nordictype exercise devices, and various other types of exercise devices knownby one skilled in the art. As such, a user may manually select theparticular exercise device to be used. Alternatively, audio programmodule 304 may dynamically select the particular exercise device and thevarious audio programs applicable to the user's exercise device byanalyzing the user information gathered by login-registration module302. No matter the manner by which the particular exercise device isselected, FIG. 15 depicts an illustrative flow diagram that depictspossible user selections and data flow related to accessing the one ormore audio programs available through communication system 18, and morespecifically iFit.com website 300.

As shown, upon selecting a particular exercise device (whether manuallyor dynamically as discussed above), as depicted by block 350, the useris allowed to select the type of music to be played during the programsession, as depicted by block 352. Once the user has selected theparticular music type, the user is given the option to view the programinformation to determine if the difficulty level is too great, asdepicted by decision block 354. For example, if the individual wishes toview the exercise program profile, communication module 254 packetizesan audio and/or graphical representation of the exercise programselected (i.e., the maximum speed, maximum incline, time to perform theexercise program, amount of time at each maximum speed and incline, andvarious other operating parameters known to one skilled in the art) andtransmits the data to either the integrally formed video output device94 (FIGS. 1 and 6) mounted on treadmill 12, or alternatively, to monitor166 (FIG. 7) associated with computer 14 for review by the user, asdepicted by block 356.

Alternatively, the user may decide not to view the user profile, suchthat the response to decision block 354 is in the negative. Whether ornot the user views the exercise profile, the user may select to beginthe online exercise program, as depicted by decision block 358. If theuser selects in the affirmative, communication module 254 delivers theaudio signals, with control signals, to user module 252 in accordancewith the selection. Consequently, communication module 254 may downloadthe entire audio program to user module 252, or alternatively “stream”the audio signals thereto by a manner known by one skilled in the art.Upon completion of the program, as depicted by block 360, the user isgiven the opportunity to purchase their own copy of the audio programjust performed, as represented by decision block 364. In the event theydecline to purchase the program session, the particular audio programsession is completed and the user is optionally returned to the homepageof iFit.com website 300.

Referring again to decision block 358, if the user selects not toperform the online program, the user may optionally select to purchasethe program, as depicted by decision block 364. If this selection is inthe negative, the user is returned to the homepage of iFit.com website300. Otherwise, if the user wishes to purchase the program, audioprogram module 304 gathers account information, as depicted by block 366and media format, such as CD, tape, MP3 file, or the like, as depictedby block 368. Furthermore, audio program module 304, through videooutput device 90 or monitor 166 displays the pricing guides for varioustypes of media and/or associated mailing costs, as depicted by block370. Alternatively, audio program module 304 may interface with anaccounting module that performs the function of storing and collectingaccount information and purchase information from any of the variousmodules associated with communication module 254. As such, communicationmodule 254 may have a centralized accounting module that is accessibleby one or more of the various modules forming communication module 254.Furthermore, in another alternate configuration, audio program module304 may communicate with login-registration module 302 and obtainaccount information therefrom or directly access the information fromthe portion of memory 278 containing the account information.

Referring again to FIG. 12, communication module 254 further includesvideo program module 306. Video program module 306 uses a similar flowof information and related functional operations as audio program module304; however, video program module 306 merely gives video options to theuser, whether such video options include or exclude audio programstransposed or incorporated therein. Therefore, instead of selecting amusic type, video program module 306 enables a user to select a videoprogram session and receive real-time or streamed video and/or audiosignals. Similarly, in the event the user wishes to purchase the videoprogram, video program module 306 enables the user to select aparticular type of video format such as CD ROM, DVD, video tape, MP3file, and the like.

According to another aspect of the present invention, communicationmodule 254 includes a health information module 308. Health informationmodule 308, in one embodiment, includes a searchable database ofinformation related to health issues for those exercising and/or thosewho wish to begin to exercise using communication module 254. As such,in one configuration, health information module 308 is a distantlylocated database, such as a relational, hierarchal, or some otherdatabase that is accessible by the iFit.com website 300. Alternatively,health information module 308 may be incorporated within the hardwareand/or software components and modules hosting iFit.com website 300.

Communication module 254 may optionally include a consumer purchasemodule 310. Consumer purchase module 310 is configured to enable a userto purchase exercise equipment, materials such as books andinstructional materials, nutritional supplements, and the like online.Consumer purchase module 310 may, therefore, link directly to one ormore affiliates of communication module 254. Alternatively, consumerpurchase module 310 may include a database, whether relational,hierarchal, or the like that has stored specifications, pricing guides,illustrative images of exercise devices and products, and the like, thata user may search through to find the necessary or desired exerciseequipment. Additionally, consumer purchase module 310 may include thenecessary hardware and/or software modules to gather and store billingand purchase information from the user or alternatively, consumerpurchase module 310 may communicate with a centralized accounting modulethat performs the necessary functions typically known by one skilled inthe art related to accounting, billing, purchasing, sales, and the likeactivities.

According to another aspect of the present invention, communicationmodule 254 includes a personal training module 312. Personal trainingmodule 312 enables a user to interact with a personal trainer on alive-on-live exercise session whether in a one on one session or in agroup setting. Additionally, personal trainer module 312 enables theuser to ask questions and receive communications from one or morepersonal trainers related to exercise advice, techniques, and programs,whether or not in real-time.

Referring now to FIG. 16, a schematic representation of the variousillustrative functional modules of personal training module 312 areillustrated. As shown, personal training module 312 includes ascheduling module 380 that enables various individuals to schedule timesto talk to and optionally perform a live workout program. Schedulingmodule 380 enables the user to access a profile module 382 that containsone or more trainer profiles. In this way, personal training module 312enables a user to review the profiles of the various trainer to selectthe particular trainer that best suits the user's needs and/or timerequirements. Profile module 382 may, therefore, include a database,whether relational, hierarchical, or the like, or some other datastorage hardware and/or software that is capable of storing data in anaccessible form.

Scheduling module 380, in one embodiment, communicates with acalendaring module 384 that lists the days of the month and theparticular times available for one-on-one exercise programs with eachtrainer. Additionally, calendaring module 384 may list the times ofgroup sessions and enable a user to select a particular session timereference within calendaring module 384 for the user to exercise with apersonal trainer.

As shown, scheduling module 380 may communicate with a mailbox module386 that includes multiple mailboxes, one for each user and trainer.Each mailbox may receive email from trainers and other users ofcommunication module 254, or alternatively, only trainers orcommunication module 254 may deliver a message 388 to each user, such aselectronic mail. Generally, each mailbox is configured to receivemessages from the trainers regarding scheduled one-on-one exercisesessions or group sessions. Additionally, communication module 254 oriFit.com website 300 may deliver notifications of upcoming special groupexercise sessions, or other information related to the user and/orexercising. Each user and/or trainer may save unique exercise programscreated by the user and/or the trainer within data storage 390accessible by mailbox module 386. Optionally, data storage 390 maycorrespond to memory 278 (FIG. 11) or other external memory that isaccessible to mailbox module 386.

Communicating with personal training module 312 is a video conferencingmodule 392. Video conferencing module 392 provides the functionalhardware and/or software to allow a user to videoconference with apersonal trainer. For example, video conferencing module 392 may includevarious hardware and/or software modules that: (1) assist with datatransmission of audio and/or video signals between user modules 252a-252 n and trainer modules 256 a-256 n; (2) assist with image and voicecapturing; (3) packetizing or depacketizing data, and the like, such asthose discussed with respect to system 10, or otherwise known to thoseskilled in the art in light of the teaching contained herein.Additionally, video conferencing module 392 allows the user tovideoconference with the personal trainer in either a private room, asrepresented by numeral 394 or in a public room, as represented bynumeral 396. In either case, (i.e., in the private or public room) theuser may exercise with the personal trainer in a one-on-one or groupsetting.

It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art, that the functionalitydescribed herein with respect to personal training module 312 may bevaried and is only illustrative of one possible embodiment thereof.Other functionality and associated structures such as hardware and/orsoftware modules may be included within personal trainer module 312.Furthermore, various other linkages may occur between the variousfunctional modules of personal training module 312. For example, in onealternate embodiment, calendaring module 384 is linked with private room394 such that upon scheduling a one-on-one exercise program, a privateroom is automatically scheduled for the user. Additionally, calendaringmodule 384 may automatically send a message to the user's mailbox,thereby providing the user with information regarding the particularprivate room scheduled and a reminder of the scheduled time.

According to another aspect of the present invention, as illustrated inFIG. 12, iFit.com website 300 includes a competition module 314.Competition module 314 enables one or more individuals to engage incompetitive exercise programming with one another or alternatively withthe communication module 254 hosting iFit.com website 300. Suchcompetitive exercise programming motivates the users to exercise on amore regular basis while also setting goals for the individual to reach.Competition module 314, therefore, provides various benefits to thoseseeking to exercise on a regular basis.

Referring now to FIGS. 17A-17D, a flow diagram representing oneillustrative operation of competition module 314 is depicted. As shown,a user selects the particular race types that they wish to engage in, asdepicted by block 400. Three types of races are depicted; race aroundthe world 402, race against the computer 404, and personalized race 406;however various other race types are applicable and known to one skilledin the art, in view of the teaching contained herein.

One particular race type is a race around the world. In the race aroundthe world type race, an individual races against various otherindividuals to determine who will run around the world in the shortesttime. Communication module 254 tracks the exercising activities ofcompeting users of user modules 252 a-252 b and computes the distancetraveled per exercise session and per user. A running total of thedistance traveled is maintained and updated, such as in data storagemodule 390 and/or some other portion of memory 278. Each competitor maycompare the total distance traveled against other competitors to see whoruns a number of miles equivalent to running around the world in theshortest time.

With reference to FIG. 17A, when the race around the world race type isselected, competition module 314 retrieves the stored statisticalinformation of the user, as depicted by block 410, such as from memory278. The statistical information may include, but is not limited to,distance traveled by the user, average speed of the user, and the like.Once competition module 314 selects the stored statistical information,such information may be compared against other competitors in the race,as depicted by block 412. Competition module 314 may deliver comparisondata to communication module 254. In turn, communication module 254 maydeliver a graphical representation of the user's exercise distance,times, speed, and other information compared against other competitorsto the user via user modules 252 a-252 n. One of user modules 252 a-252n or a user operating treadmill 12, for example, may view their distanceand times with respect to other competing users of user modules 252a-252 n, thereby being motivated to exercise more. Once such informationis depicted, the user may modify their existing exercise programs toeither increase or decrease exercise parameters of the programs. Forexample, if the user sees that they have not run as many miles as othercompetitors, they may increase the distance to be run in the future.Once the user is ready, the user may begin or continue the race, asrepresented by block 414. As the user exercises communication module 254records new statistical information for the user, such as speed,distance traveled, calories used, and the like.

It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that various otherconfigurations of the race around the world type race are applicable andknown to one skilled in the art. For example, in another configurationof the race around the world type race, a user may select a particulartime period, say from January 1 to February 1, and race against othersto see who travels the furthest distance within the given time period.Again, communication module 254 tracks the distance traveled of eachcompetitor and may provide graphical representations of the position ofone competitor against the other competitors. In still yet anotherconfiguration, the race around the world may include racing over varioustypes of terrain ranging from deserts, mountains, and the like. As such,each competitor follows a similar overall exercise profile andcommunication module 254 tracks the time that a user takes to completethe race, for example, when a user slows down the treadmill based uponthe terrain traversed.

Referring again to FIG. 17A, the user may optionally select to raceagainst the computer, as referenced by block 404. As the name of therace type suggests, this option enables the user to select a particulartype of race and a particular skill level of the computer against whichto race. As shown in FIG. 17C, a user selects the difficulty level forthe particular race, as represented by block 416, such as in the case ofa treadmill, the speed, incline, distance, and the like. This may alsoenable the user to select a particular skill level of the computer, suchas a beginner runner, intermediate runner, or advanced runner.Additionally, the user may select various other options, as representedby block 418, such as a head start for the computer or the user, scalingof the particular difficulty level, and the like. Upon completing theselections, the user may race against the computer, as represented byblock 420.

With reference to FIG. 17A, another type of race is a personalized race,as depicted by block 406. In the personalized race, two or moreindividuals schedule a live on live session, such as in a private roomof personal training module 312 where they may race one against theother, while viewing graphical representations of the distance, time,and speed of the other competitors. Alternatively, two or moreindividuals may schedule a race where the start time is adjusted basedupon the particular location of the competitors.

As shown in FIG. 17D, a user may select a time-adjusted race, asdepicted by decision block 422. If the user rejects time adjustment,then the user will race against one or more competitors in alive-on-live competition. The user selects one or more competitors, asreferenced by block 424. Following the selection, each competitor entersa private room to begin the race and to synchronize each competitor'sexercise device with communication module 254 and each other, asdepicted by block 426. Alternatively, each competitor may merely enterthe private room that has been scheduled for the race, therebyautomatically selecting each competitor for the race, whilesynchronizing each competitor's exercise device in block 426 inpreparation for beginning the race as depicted by block 428.

Synchronization prepares the communication links between each competitorand generates the displays and data flow therebetween, such as but notlimited to the audio and video data flows and displays that enable eachcompetitor to view their progress against each other. For example, thedisplay may include a racing track that shows a relative position ofeach competitor one with another, or a trail that each competitor racesalong. It may be appreciated that various other data flows and displaysare appropriate and known to one skilled in the art in view of theteaching contained herein.

As suggested above, the user may select a time-adjusted race. Thetime-adjusted race allows two or more competitors to conveniently raceagainst each other. For example, the time-adjusted race allows anindividual on the east coast to race against individuals in the MountainTime zone and the west coast at the same local time, for example 5:00p.m. The time-adjusted race, therefore, stores the race of oneindividual, say the individual on the east coast who races at 5:00 p.m.and then rebroadcasts the stored exercise race to those otherindividuals in various other time zones upon reaching the designatedtime period, such as 5:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time, Pacific Time, andthe like.

With reference to FIG. 17D, for ease of explanation, let us assume thatthree individuals, one on the east coast, one in the Mountain Time zone,and one on the west coast wish to race against each other at 5:00 pmlocal time. Each competitor accesses communication module 254 andselects each other as competitors, block 430, in a time-adjusted race,as depicted in decision block 422. Each competitor defines theparticular time period or adjusted time at which each individual is torace, as depicted by block 432. The selections and adjusted times foreach competitor are stored in one or more databases or other storagemodules associated with an identification number given to thetime-adjusted race or directly to each competitor, such as data storagemodule 390 or memory 278. Once the information is entered and stored,the competitor on the east coast may perform their race on their own orwith the aid of a pace setter generated by the computer at the appointedtime, as depicted by block 434. Once the east coast competitor finishestheir race, the statistical information and a real-time representationof the race is stored, as represented by block 436. Upon the arrival ofthe adjusted time for the Mountain Time zone competitor to race,communication module 254 will rebroadcast the particular race performedby the east coast competitor to the Mountain Time zone competitor.Similarly, upon the time for the west coast competitor to race,communication module 254 will rebroadcast the particular race performedby the east coast competitor and optionally the Mountain Time zonecompetitor to the west coast competitor. It may be appreciated by oneskilled in the art that the live on live and time-adjusted races may beperformed in a variety of different manners. For example, the number ofcompetitors is not limited to any specific number. Additionally, thetime adjustments may allow for competitors throughout the world to raceone against another.

It may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that competition module314 may have various other configurations. For example, thefunctionality of competition module 314 may be incorporated within usermodules 252 a-252 n. As such, two or more user modules 252 a-252 n maybe in direct communication one with another, without the aid ofcommunication module 254, and the internal modules of user modules 252a-252 n enable competition data to be transceived between the usermodules 252 a-252 n.

With reference again to FIG. 12, communication module 254 furtherincludes a diagnostic module 316. Diagnostic module 316 enables the userto perform a diagnostic analysis of their particular exercise device orproduct in the case of disconnection or changes in the operation oftheir exercise device or product. Additionally, diagnostic module 316enables the user to update and change operational parameters of theuser's exercise device or product, either through manual activation ofdiagnostic control 88 (FIG. 6) or automatically through communicationmodule 254. For example, in the event a new software update is availablefor the particular exercise device's software, communication module 254may automatically recognize operation of the update and deliver the sameto each individual having an exercise device or product that may benefitfrom updating of the software. Additionally, the diagnostic module 316may identify problems with the exercise device through remote monitoringof user modules 252 a-252 n and subsequently schedule arrival times formaintenance workers to resolve physical problems that are unable to befixed by remote communication from communication module 254.

As such, referring now to FIG. 18, an illustrative flow diagramrepresenting diagnostic module 316 is depicted. As shown, a user isasked to select whether they wish to update their product, as depictedby decision block 440. Alternatively, communication module 254 mayautomatically recognize that the exercise device or product is to beupdated, therefore eliminating block 440 from the flow diagram. In theevent that the user wishes to update the exercise device or product,communication module 254, and more specifically diagnostic module 316,connects directly to user modules 252 a-252 n via network 16 (FIGS. 1and 10), as depicted by block 442. Such connection may be achieved by avariety of manners, as known by one skilled in the art and alsodiscussed herein. Upon connecting to user modules 252 a-252 n orproduct, diagnostic module 316 verifies that particular hardware and/orsoftware modules are contained therein, as shown by block 444. In theevent that software or read/write hardware may be updated, the necessaryexecutable file is either streamed or downloaded to user modules 252a-252 n, as referenced by block 446. Upon receiving the downloadablefile, user modules 252 a-252 n execute the executable file to update thehardware and/or software components therein, as referenced by block 448.Alternatively, such as in system 10 (FIG. 1), the downloadable file maybe downloaded to computer 14 which may execute the program and updatetreadmill 12 remotely.

Referring again to decision block 440, when the user answers in thenegative, the user is subsequently queried as to whether they are havingdifficulty with their exercise device or product, as identified decisionblock 450. Upon answering in the affirmative, diagnostic module 316queries the user, as depicted by block 452, as to the difficulties theyare having and what attempts if any, they have made to resolve theproblem. Upon gathering the necessary information, diagnostic module 316connects to the exercise device or other device, as depicted by block454, and thereafter analyzes the various hardware and software problemsto resolve and identify whether it is possible to remotely fix theproblem, as depicted by blocks 456 and 458. In the event that theexercise device or device may be remotely corrected, through an update,as depicted by decision block 460, diagnostic module 316 will thenperform the steps of updating as previously described in block 442, 444,446, and 448. Alternatively, if the problem may not be corrected throughremote access, diagnostic module 316 may automatically schedule a timefor physical maintenance of the device or product. It may be appreciatedby one skilled in the art, that various other functionality may beperformed by diagnostic module 316.

In an alternate configuration, when user module 252 (FIG. 10) is placedin the active status (e.g. turned on) user module 252 may optionallyanalyze its internal hardware and/or software modules to verify thatsuch modules are operating correctly. In the event that one or moreproblems occur, diagnostic module 316 answers decision block 440 in theaffirmative, thereby automatically obtaining an update fromcommunication module 254 (FIG. 10) or alternatively manually requestinginformation from the user. Optionally, when a user of user module 252accesses communication module 254 (FIG. 10) communication module 254activates diagnostic module 316 (FIG. 12) to analyze user module 252.

In still another alternate configuration, communication module 254remotely monitors various operating parameters of user module 252. Forinstance, such parameters can include, but are not limited to, operatingparameters of the tread base, the belt, usage of the treadmill, theindividual exercising upon the treadmill, voltage, current, and powerusage and efficiency associated with the components of user module 252,and the like. Communication module 254 can analyze such parameters andconsequently vary any number of operating parameters of user module 252to resolve problems with user module 252, aid the exercising user toperform an effective exercise workout, request an individual or entityto repair or check user module 252 for problems, or the like.

Referring again to FIG. 12, according to another aspect of the presentinvention, communication module 254 enables a user to prepare apersonalized audio and/or video exercise program. Communication module254, therefore, includes program generation module 318. Programgeneration module 318, referring now to FIG. 19, enables a user toselect an audio program session, as depicted by decision block 470and/or a video program session, as depicted by decision block 478. Inthe event that only an audio program session is desired, the userinitially selects the type of exercise device that the program is to beused, such as but not limited to treadmills, cycles, steppers, hikers,climbers, Nordic style devices, ellipticals, and the like, asrepresented by block 472. Upon selecting the type of device, the usermay then select a specific type of music, such as rock, pop, country,jazz, classical, alternative, or the like, that is to be used with theexercise program, as represented by block 474. Once a particular musictype is selected, the user may then generate an exercise profile thatthe exercise device will follow during the exercise program, as depictedby block 476. Generation of the exercise profile may include definingone or more operating parameters of the exercise device, such as thespeed and inclination of the tread base for a given period of time. Uponfinalizing the exercise program, the user may then store the program, asrepresented by block 488, such as in their mailbox, on their exercisedevice, on a computer readable media, or the like.

In the case of a video program, the user again selects the particulartype of exercise device to be used in association with the exerciseprogramming, as represented by block 480. Upon selecting the exercisedevice, the user may select a particular video presentation they desire,as represented by block 482. The video presentation includes any type ofmotivational programming known to those skilled in the art. For example,and not by way of limitation, the video presentation may include naturalscenes, such as mountains, oceans, streams, and the like, exercisingindividuals, educational programming, abstract images, and the like. Itis preferred that each video presentation includes a specific soundtrack; however, the user may modify a particular audio track that issynchronized with the video presentation or optionally generate acompletely new audio track, according to block 484. Once the videoprogram, and optional music program, is selected, the user maysubsequently generate an exercise profile, as represented by block 486,in a similar manner to that described above. As with the audio program,the video program may be stored for use at subsequent times, as depictedby block 488.

The presently described invention may be used in a variety of situationsto enable individuals who wish to exercise to obtain more beneficialresults in a highly motivated setting. With this in mind, followinghereinafter is an illustrative embodiment of an environment within whichthe exercise devices and modules of the presently described inventionmay be used.

Referring again to FIG. 12, communication module 254 includes anadvertising module 320. Advertising module 320 is adapted to retrievethe information obtained by login-registration module 302 and retrievefrom memory 194 or external memory 196 (FIG. 8) advertisements that maybe appropriate for the user to view in light of the selections madeduring the login process. In one embodiment, an audio and videoadvertisement signal is delivered with the audio and video exerciseprogramming to appear on user interface 262 (FIG. 11). For example, abanner may appear on user interface 262 (FIG. 11), and more specificallyvideo display 94 (FIG. 6) for the user. Such advertising may,alternatively, take the form of an additional streaming, real time audioand video output that is linked to one or more national advertisingagencies. In such a case, the banner may optionally appear for a fewseconds to present a micro-commercial targeted to the user of usermodule 252. Upon completing the commercial, the banner may disappear, tosubsequently reappear with the same or alternatively different microcommercials at various periods along an exercise program.

Referring again to FIG. 12, communication module 254 includes a linksmodule 322. Links module 322 is configured to provide the user with alist of various additional web sites where educational and exerciseinformation, products, materials, and the like may be viewed and/orpurchased.

With reference now to FIG. 20, a master-slave system 500 is depictedthat may or may not use the systems described above to enablecommunication between the various components of the master-slave systemas will be described in detail hereinafter. Master-slave system 500 mayuse various types of networks, such as the Internet to enablecommunication between the various portions of master-slave system 500.Master-slave system 500, in this embodiment, includes a master device502 and one or more slave devices 504 a-504 n communicating with masterdevice 502. In this embodiment, master device 502 may take the form of atreadmill with a computer integrally formed therein. Alternatively,master device 502 may be a treadmill with one or more processors,controllers and memory storage devices that allow master device 502 tocontrol one or more slave devices 504 a-504 n without entirelyincorporating a computer therein. Master device 502, therefore, may ormay not incorporate the structure and functionality of treadmill 20(FIG. 1) or other exercise device, communication module 254 (FIG. 10),and/or trainer modules 256 a-256 n (FIG. 10).

Generally, master device 502 enables an individual exercising thereuponto control one or more slave devices 504 a-504 n, in real-time, whetheror not master device 502 receives input data from the one or more slavedevices 504 a-504 n. As depicted, master device 502 is directly linkedwith each of the slave devices 504 a-504 n via a communication lineconnection, such as but not limited to existing broadcast technology,including short range wireless transmissions, television broadcast overthe airwaves, cable or cable modems, satellite, telephone lines, whetheranalog or digitally based, wireless technology, other high-speed dataconnections, or any other suitable transmission technology or medium.Master device 502, therefore, includes the appropriate hardware and/orsoftware applicable to enable master device 502 to communicate andcontrol one or more slave devices 504 a-504 n.

In one case, the internal components of master device 502, alone, aresufficient to enable communication to and control of slave devices 504a-504 n. Therefore, master device 502 need not incorporate computer 14(FIG. 1), translator device 13 (FIG. 1), or hardware and/or softwaremodules of communication system 18, or communication module 254 therein.In another configuration, master device 502 may communicate with slaves504 a-504 n via a network and a communication system or module so thatmaster-slave system 500 has a similar configuration to system 250 whereone or more trainer modules 256 a-256 n control the operation of one ormore user modules 252 a-252 n via network 16, whether or notcommunication module 254 is used to facilitate such communication andcontrol.

Each slave device 504 a-504 n and sub-slave device 506 a-506 n linked tomaster device 502 may take the form of an exercise device, such astreadmill 12, translator device 13, and/or computer 14 of FIG. 1.Additionally, each slave device 504 a-504 n may incorporate thestructure and functionality of user modules 252 a-252 n. Each slavedevice 504 a-504 n, therefore, may be controlled by master device 502 inreal-time while enabling the user to manually override the operation ofthe exercise device in opposition to control signals received frommaster device 502.

As illustrated in FIG. 20, each slave 504 a-504 n may optionally be amaster to subsequent sub-slave device 506 a-506 n, as shown in brokenlines. In such a manner, various exercise devices may be separated intodifferent groups. For example, slave 504 a may receive a beginner levelcontrol signal from master 502. In turn, slave 504 a may control theoperation of one or more sub-slave devices 506 a-506 n that are operatedby one or more beginners. Similarly, slave 504 b may receive anintermediate level control signal from master 502 and subsequentlycontrol one or more sub-slaves (not shown), while slave 504 n mayreceive an advanced level control signal from master 502 andsubsequently control one or more sub-slaves (not shown).

According to another alternate configuration, master device 502 mayreceive information from each slave device 504 a-504 n representative ofthe user's heart rate, blood pressure, and the like. Master device 502may, therefore, modify each slave device 504 a-504 n or sub-slave device506 a-506 n, whether individually or collectively, based upon the datareceived from the user. For example, if the user's heart rate is toohigh, master device 502 may automatically reduce one or more operatingparameters of the exercise device, such as speed, incline, resistance,and the like.

In summary, although it is preferred that the communications performedaccording to the present invention (e.g., the first signal and thesecond signal) be in real time, it is also possible to achieve manyobjects of the present invention by engaging in communication other thanreal time.

Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, the devicesdisclosed herein can incorporate various audio/video features into thedevice or exercise device itself rather than having external audio/videofeatures connected thereto. The exercise devices can also includesensors that track the activity level of an individual on the exercisedevice and consequently determine whether the user is actuallyexercising or is old enough to be using the exercise device.

Additionally, the devices of the present invention allow one or moreusers to exercise in a group setting, while being distantly located onefrom another. Furthermore, the present invention enables home exerciseequipment users to interact with trainers, other users, physicaltherapists, physicians, and the like in live-on-live workout sessionsand, in some situations, allow a trainer, physical therapists,physicians, and the like to control at least one operating parameter ofthe exercise device upon which the user is training.

To enable the above-described communication, a user may access acommunication system or module that facilities communication between oneor more users, trainers, or third parties. Such communication system ormodule may include at least one web site with associated web pages. As auser accesses the communication system or module, statisticalinformation related to an individual's workout regime, such as how muchtime an individual spends on each various exercise device, the locationswhere they trained, when each user accesses the communication system ormodules, and the like is gathered.

Generally, the communication system or module, and hence the web site,may enable a user to access information and programming containedtherein. In one embodiment, the communication system or module has theability to control at least one operating parameter of the device orexercise device via the web site and web pages. In one case, when a useractivates one or more input devices, such as a touch sensitive screenhaving a visual representation of the web page thereon, thecommunication system or module, via the web site, changes theoperational parameters of the device or exercise device. The same website provides access to various exercise programming. For example, theuser may select live or recorded programming or select competitivemotivational content. Such competitive motivational content allows anindividual to compare the amount of miles traveled on an exercise deviceagainst individuals throughout the world engaging in similar activities.Therefore, competitors around the world may race against one another.Optionally, two or more users may link their exercise devices directlywithout the need to communicate through the communication system ormodule.

Another type of motivational content may include one or more electronicmagazines or books that a user may download to view while exercising.Yet another type of motivational content or programming relates to theability of the user to view an exercise profile representative of theexercise program currently being performed by the user. Such profile maybe displayed to the user continuously, periodically, or other under thecontrol of the user and/or the communication system or module. In oneconfiguration, the exercise profile may appear and overlay the visualimage that the user is watching, whether the visual image is atelevision broadcast, webcast, or the like.

Another type of motivational content relates to various advertisements.During the exercise program a user may receive commercial advertisingthrough an advertising banner that may continuously or periodicallyappear on the video display. Optionally, the advertisement may appear ina picture-in-picture advertisement that is delivered to the user as amicro-commercial that is displayed to the user and subsequently removed.

As implied above, the programming received from the communication systemor module may be live or recorded. In some situations the liveprogramming received by the user may be too difficult or not difficultenough for the user of the exercise device. The present inventionprovides scaling controls that allow the user to scale the signalsreceived from the communication system or module and/or the trainer. Inthis manner, the exercising user may increase or decrease the intensityof the exercise program. Such scaling may be achieved either at the userdevice, trainer device, the communication system or module, or at someother third party modules that may control the operation of the user'sexercise device. By selecting a particular option on the web page, theuser's appliance will be controlled according to the scaled choice.Optionally, the user may define a maximum limit for one or more of theoperating parameters of the device, such that the transmittedprogramming is limited in accordance with the maximum values defined foreach operating parameter.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the systems,devices, and modules of the present invention enable bidirectionalcommunication between one or more user devices and one or more trainerdevices. The communication system or module of the present invention mayretrieve information from the devices and/or exercise devices andevaluates the operating parameters of the device and/or exercise device.The communication system or module may analyze any measurable parameterof the device or exercise device and may optionally analyze anymeasurable parameter of a user exercising using the exercise device. Inresponse to this analysis, the communication system or module prescribesa particular action for the device or exercise device to perform, suchas changing the speed of a treadmill, inclination of a treadmill, andthe like. In this manner, the exercise device is capable of beingcontrolled by signals from the communication system or module.

Similarly, the exercise device can be controlled by physical controlsintegrated onto the device or exercise device. The physically integratedcontrols and the control signals from the communication system or modulecan be passed through a buffer that controls the exercise device ordevice. In this way, in the event that connectivity to the communicationsystem or module is lost, a user of the device or exercise device isstill capable of controlling the device or exercise device.

In addition to control signals, the communication system or modules canremotely update various portions of a device or exercise deviceaccording to the need or direction of the user of the device or asdetermined by the communication system or module. For example, thecommunication system or module may change any and all parameters relatedto the device or exercise device, such as the BIOS, or some othersoftware. This can be achieved automatically or through use of adiagnostic button. Upon activation of the diagnostic button, theinternal hardware and/or software components of the device or exercisedevice, solely, or in combination with the communication system ormodules, tests and checks the various hardware and/or software modules,components, or elements of the device or exercise device. If anyproblems are found the internal hardware and/or software components ofthe device or exercise device, solely, or in combination with thecommunication system or modules attempt to fix the problems.Additionally, the diagnostic button may activate a downloading sequenceto update information on the appliance with new software from a centraldatabase, such as a communication system or module.

As discussed previously, the diagnostic button is one example of aninterface to allow a user to access the communication system. Thepresent invention can include other interfaces that can communicate withexisting hardware and/or software components of various existing devicesand exercise devices. As such, those devices or exercise devices notcurrently capable of communicating with a communication system ormodule, can be retrofitted with various hardware and/or software modulesas described herein to allow the exercise device or device tocommunicate with the communication system or module.

In addition to operating alone, a number of the devices of the presentinvention can be used in a master-slave system. In such a system,changes to the operating parameters of the master are translated to theoperating parameters of the slave, thereby controlling the operation ofthe device or exercise device. For example, in a spinner class, uponactivation of a more intense riding experience by the master, the slavespinners also give their riders a similarly intense riding experience.The master may selectively choose groups of participants based onvarious criteria, such as participant's heart rates, and change thoseparticipants exercise program, while maintaining other participants atthe original or different exercise level.

Referring now to FIGS. 21-25, depicted is another illustrative system,designated by referenced numeral 600, that may incorporate the novelfeatures of the present invention. The majority of the features andelements of system 600 are similar to those referenced with respect tosystem 10, and system 250. Subsequently, like elements, features, ordevices are designated with like reference numerals.

As shown, an exercise mechanism, such as treadmill 12 is incommunication with a trainer (not shown) at treadmill 20 via optionalpersonal computer 14. Alternatively, treadmill 12 may communicate with atrainer at communication system 18 or third party 21, either directlyvia network 16 or through personal computer 14 and network 16. Althoughnot depicted in FIG. 21, one skilled in the art can appreciate thattreadmill 12 can communicate with communication system 18 via translatordevice 13 (FIG. 1) and computer 14, as described previously.

Generally, system 600 allows a user of treadmill 12 to download exerciseprograms stored at communication system 18, treadmill 20, or third party21 for use in the performance of an exercise workout. These programs caninclude motivational content with optional control signals that controlthe operation of treadmill 12. The control signals may or may not besynchronized with the motivational content based upon the particularmotivational content and downloadable exercise program. Therefore, eachprogram can include an audio representation of a trainer performing anexercise workout, while providing encouragement and other motivationalsupport, and/or control signals that vary one or more operatingparameters of treadmill 12.

As illustrated, system 600 includes a portable system 602. Portablesystem 602 can download exercise programs from one or more of the othersystems or devices of system 600. For example, portable system 602 candownload motivational content with associated control signals fromcommunication system 18 through network 16 and personal computer 14.Although it is desirable that the motivational content includessynchronized control signals, one skilled in the art can appreciate thatportable system 602 can receive motivational content without controlsignals, control signals without motivational content, or asynchronousmotivational content and control signals.

As shown, portable system 602 can communicate directly with treadmill 12and computer 14 to gain access to communication system 18. Further, asillustrated in FIG. 21, portable system 602 can directly communicatewith network 16 to access communication system 18, treadmill 20, orthird party 21 when portable system 602 has Internet capabilities, suchas when portable system 602 is a personal digital assistant, a palmcomputer, a mobile or wireless telephone, or the like.

In addition to downloading exercise programs, portable system 602 canupload to communication system 18, treadmill 20, and/or third party 21data specific to the user of treadmill 12. For instance, portable system602 can upload data representative of any measurable parameter of thetreadmill user to personal computer 14, communication system 18,treadmill 20, or third party 21 of system 600. Such data can berepresentative of, but not limited to, the user's heart rate, user'sblood pressure, distance traveled by the user, period of time which theuser exercises, and the like. Similarly, portable system 602 can uploaddata representative of any measurable parameter of the exercise device,i.e., treadmill 12. Such data can include, but is not limited to, speedor inclination of the belt, operating status of the components andmodules of treadmill 12, and the like.

Whether the data represents operating parameters of the exercising useror treadmill 12, this data can be stored at communication system 18 foranalysis by a trainer either alone or in combination with modules andcomponents of treadmill 20, and third party 21. Consequently, thetrainer, either alone or in combination with the modules and componentsof communication system 18, or third party 21 can prepare a userspecific exercise program that can be downloaded to the user oftreadmill 12.

By providing access to a trainer, portable system 602 facilitates theperformance of an exercise program by the user of treadmill 12. Further,portable system 602 provides a user with the functionality associatedwith an iFit compatible exercise mechanism, as discussed herein, whenthe exercise mechanism upon which the user is exercising is iFitincompatible, i.e., portable system 602 allows a user to access theiFit.com website 300 (FIG. 11) hosted on communication system 18,download an exercise program, and perform the exercise program inaccordance with the motivational content, without the need to own orhave access to a treadmill that can communicate with communicationsystem 18. In this manner, a user can experience an iFit experience witha user's existing exercise mechanism or equipment.

Referring now to FIG. 22, a more detailed representation of oneillustrative portable system 602 of the present invention is depicted.Portable system 602 includes a control device 604, an audio deliverydevice 606, and a sensing device 608. Although each of these devices604, 606, and 608 are illustratively separated one from another, variousother configurations of the present invention can incorporate all or aportion of device 604, 606, and 608 into a single device.

Control device 604 of portable system 602 is configured to download anddeliver exercise programs to an exercising user and upload retrievedexercise data to personal computer 14, communication system 18,treadmill 20, and/or third party 21. The downloaded exercise program andretrieved exercise data can be stored within control device 604 on astorage medium 621, whether removable or not, such as but not limited toan ASIC chip, programmable ROM, CD-ROM, EEPROM, PCMCIA card, arecordable integrated circuit (IC) termed a memory stick, compact flashcard, flash bios, dynamic memory, magnetic storage disk, optical storagemedia, or the like.

The stored exercise program, in this illustrative configuration, caninclude motivational content and control signals that operate treadmill12 in synchronization with the motivational content. For instance, themotivational content can be an audio program having one of a variety offormats, such as an MP3 file, a wave file, an audio file, a MIDI file,and the like. Similarly, the control signals forming part of theexercise program can be audible or inaudible signals that cause a changein one or more of the operating parameters of treadmill 12, such as inthe manner discussed previously.

As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the exercise programcan be devoid of control signals, thereby allowing the user to manuallymanipulate the controls of treadmill 12. Alternatively, the exerciseprogram can include the control signals, while the user can manuallyoverride the changes initiated by the control signals. Similarly, whenthe exercise mechanism is not iFit compatible or not capable of beingcontrolled by the control signals, the control signals will have noeffect on the exercise mechanism, consequently allowing the user tomanipulate the operation of the exercise mechanism. In still anotherconfiguration, the exercise program can only include control signalswith no motivational content, such as when the motivational content isdelivered to control device 604 as a separate file written or stored ona storage medium.

As illustratively shown in FIG. 22, control device 604 includes buttons614 a-614 e, ports 616, 618, and 620 and a display 622. Each button 614a-614 e and port 616, 618, and 620 is considered an input device ormeans for inputting data into control device 604. In some embodiments,display 622 is also an input device, such as when display device 622 isa touch sensitive input device or other similar display device thatallows a user to input data into control device 604 or otherwise causescontrol device 604 to perform the desired function.

Each button 614 a-614 e allows a user to initiate or activate differentfunctionality of control device 604 and system 600. For instance, onebutton, such as 614 a can power control device 604 into an “on” oroperational status, while another button 614 e can place control device604 into an “off” or inoperable status. Further, other buttons can: (i)begin the delivery of motivational content and/or control signals totreadmill 12; (ii) initiate storing or downloading of motivationalcontent and/or control signals to control device 604; (iii) receive datarepresentative of any measurable parameter detected by sensing device608, audio delivery device 606, or one or more sensors coupled orcommunicating with treadmill 12; (iv) deliver motivational content toaudio delivery device 606; (v) display information or data associatedwith the motivational content, the control signals, or any of themeasurable parameters of the exercising user or the exercise device;(vi) and the like. Other functionality associated with control device604 and system 600, known by one skilled in the art, can be initiated oractivated through buttons 614 a-614 e.

Although reference is made to “buttons” to perform the above-recitedfunctionality, portable system 602 can incorporate various otheractuators to cause or initiate the functionality of portable system 602and system 600. For instance, such actuators can include one or moreswitches, rheostats, potentiometers, touch sensitive controls, voiceactivated controllers, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 22, control device 604 includes ports 616, 618, and620. Port 616 is configured to allow control device 604 to communicatewith audio delivery device 606. Subsequently, the particular type ofport forming port 616 can vary based upon the configuration of audiodelivery device 606. For instance, port 616 can accommodate an audiojack, such as but not limited to an RCA-type audio jack, and the like.Alternatively, control device 604 and audio delivery device 606 can belinked via a connectionless link, such as by a radio frequency (RF),infrared (IR), or other wireless-type communication line connection,with port 616 having the form of a transmitter and/or receiver of theappropriate electromagnetic radiation.

Port 618 is configured to allow control device 604 to upload anddownload data from treadmill 12, personal computer 14, and/orcommunication system 18, treadmill 20, or third party 21. For instance,port 618 can receive data representative of any measurable parameter oftreadmill 12 that is detected by one or more sensors formed in treadmill12 as discussed herein. Further, port 618 can transmit control signalsto treadmill 12, such as those synchronized with the motivationalcontent stored in control device 604. Consequently, port 618 can createa physical connection or a connectionless connection with the othermodules, components, devices, and systems of system 600. For instance,as illustrated in FIG. 22, port 618 is a wireless or connectionless typeport that represents an electromagnetic radiation transmitter andreceiver. Optionally, the present invention can include two ports; oneacting as a transmitter and one acting as a receiver.

Port 620 of control device 604 is configured to allow a removablestorage element 621 to be inserted therein. For example, port 620 canaccommodate a memory stick, which can store the programs downloaded fromcommunication system 18 and/or the exercise data retrieved from theexercising user and/or treadmill 12 in a variety of formats. It can beappreciated that port 620 can have various other configurationsdepending on the particular removable storage associated with controldevice 604. For instance, port 620 can accommodate optically read media,magnetically read media, and the like.

As shown, control device 604 includes display 622, such as a liquidcrystal display (LCD). Display 622 acts as an output device thatprovides information and data to a user, such as the available batterypower level, time remaining until the completion of the exerciseworkout, quantity of storage available or used, and the like.Consequently, display 622 can have various other configurations, such asbut not limited to, an electroluminescent display (ELD), a gas-plasmadisplay, a thin film transistor (TFT) display, and the like.Alternatively, display 622 can be remote from control device 604 whilecommunicating with control device 604. For instance, display 622 can bea virtual reality (VR) display, cathode ray tube (CRT), and the like. Inanother configuration, display 622 can act as an input device whendisplay 622 is a touch sensitive control.

Communicating with control device 604 is audio delivery device 606.Generally, audio delivery device 606 is configured to delivermotivational content stored within control device 604 to the exercisinguser of treadmill 12. Audio delivery device 606, therefore, can includeone or more speakers that provide audio representations of themotivational content directly to the user. For example, as shown, audiodelivery device 606 is in the form of a headset 624, having speakers626, which may be worn by the user.

Audio delivery device 606 can communicate with portable system 602 via avariety of different types of communication line connections. Asillustrated in FIG. 22, audio delivery device 606 includes an audio jackthat engages with port 616 included within portable system 602. Such anaudio jack can be an RCA-type audio jack, and the like. Alternatively,control device 604 and audio delivery device 606 can be linked via aconnectionless link, such as by a radio frequency, infrared, or otherwireless-type communication line connection.

It can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, that various otherconfigurations of audio delivery device 606 are capable of performingthe desired function. For example, instead of delivering audio signalsto the user via both ears, the audio signals can be delivered to onlyone of the user's ears. Further, audio delivery device 606 need not beworn by the user, such as on the user's clothing, belt, head, or thelike, but can take the form of a speaker formed in control device 604 orin a speaker remote from control device 604 and/or treadmill 12. Forinstance, control device 604 can communicate directly with audio and/orvideo equipment typically available within a user's home, at a gym, atsome other exercising location, and the like.

According to another aspect of the present invention, audio deliverydevice 606 includes a sensor 630. Sensor 630, in this illustrativeconfiguration, includes two contacts; a first contact 632 a and secondcontact 632 b. Sensor 630 is configured to track any measurableparameter of the exercising user, such as but not limited to, pulse orheart rate, blood pressure, calories burned, distance traveled, and thelike. As illustrated, sensor 630 is a typical IR pulse sensor that usesfirst contact 632 a and second contact 632 b to track the pulse of theuser via the user's ear. In this manner, sensor 630 can detectexercising data or information of the exercising user. Consequently,audio delivery device 606 can deliver the collected data to controldevice 604 for future use, i.e., uploading such data or information tocommunication system 18, treadmill 20, third party 21, and the like.

The inclusion of sensor 630 within audio delivery device 606 is anadvance over the existing manners of obtaining the pulse rate or otherphysical data related to an exercising user. Particularly, incorporatingsensor 630 or some other means for measuring any measurable parameter ofthe exercising user into a wearable headset, reduces the discomforttypically associated with obtaining such data or information. Forexample, many existing pulse rate sensors use clip-type sensors thatapply a degree of pressure or force to that particular area of thepatient's body, such as the ear or finger. The inclusion of sensor 630and associated first contact and second contact 632 a, 632 b reduces thecompressive force typically applied when determining a user's pulserate, and consequently reduces the discomfort that a user has to endure.

Although it is preferred to include sensor 630 within headset 624, oneskilled in the art can understand that the present invention can utilizevarious other types of sensors, including the clip type sensors, totrack various measurable parameters of the exercising user.

As mentioned above, portable system 602 can optionally include sensingdevice 608. The sensing device 608 tracks the performance of the userduring a workout, such as sensing the acceleration or speed of the user,the distance traveled by the user during an exercise workout, and anyother measurable parameter of the user. Consequently, sensing device 608can be an accelerometer, pedometer, combination thereof, or othersensing device capable of tracking any measurable parameter of theexercising user. For instance, sensing device 608 can track bloodpressure, heart rate, calories burned, and the like in a similar mannerto sensor 630.

Typically, tracking one or more measurable parameters is achieved bycoupling sensing device 608 to the patient, such as via the user'sclothing, belt, or the like. Alternatively, sensing device 608 can bedirectly attached to the user's skin or via a combination of skin andclothing contact, such as when the user holds sensing device 608. Assensing device 608 gathers the measurable data associated with theexercising user, sensing device 608 downloads or transmits such data tocontrol device 604. In this configuration, therefore, a connection iscreated between sensing device 608 and control device 604 to allow datatransmission therebetween. For example, such a connection can take theform of a connectionless connection, i.e., an IR connection, RFconnection, or some other wireless-type connection or alternatively aphysical connection, such as through one or more conductive wires,optical fibers and the like.

The various devices forming portable system 602 can have various otherconfigurations as known by one skilled in the art. For instance, inanother configuration, sensing device 608 and sensor 630 can beincorporated within control device 604, such that control device 604both gathers and stores any measurable parameter or data related to theexercising user or the exercise device. Consequently, control device 604can include an accelerometer, a pedometer, combinations thereof, or someother sensing device 608. Therefore, the use of the term “sensor”incorporates any sensing device that can track any measurable parameterof a user or a device upon which the user is exercising, such astreadmill 12.

In another configuration, portable system 602 can include control device604 and sensing device 608, while using audio and/or video deliverydevices commonly existing in a user's home, such as televisions, radiotransceivers, removable storage devices, optically read or magneticmedia players, and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 23, a schematic representation of portable system602 is illustrated. As shown, control device 604 communicates with audiodelivery device 606 and optionally sensing device 608 as before. Asshown, control device 604 includes a user display 640 and a userinterface 642. The user display 640 provides a visual representation ofdata associated with the exercising user. For instance, user display 640can display the current distance traveled, the calories burned, timeremaining to completion of the exercise program, the amount of theexercise program performed, and the like. User display 640,consequently, can have a similar configuration to display device 622described herein.

User interface 642 allows a user to input instructions and facilitateinitiating or activating an exercise program stored within data storage646 of control device 604. The user interface 642 further provides amanner for the user to cause uploading and downloading of information toand from treadmill 12, computer 14, communication system 18, treadmill20, and/or third party 21. Various user interfaces are applicable andknown by one skilled in the art, such as but not limited to, buttons,switches, potentiometers, voice activated interfaces, touch sensitiveinterfaces, and the like. Optionally, as illustrated by dotted lines,user display 640 and user interface 642 can be incorporated into thesame device or interface, such as when user display 640 is a touchsensitive video display or other similar device.

Communicating with user display 640 and user interface 642 is processor644. Processor 644 controls the delivery of exercise programs andexercise data representative of any measurable parameter of theexercising user and/or treadmill 12 (FIG. 21) to and from computer 14,communication system 18, treadmill 20, and/or third party 21. Further,processor 644 controls the flow of data, whether exercise program dataor data representative of any measurable parameter of the exercisinguser and/or treadmill 12 (FIG. 21) between the devices and components ofportable system 602.

Generally, processor 644 can include one or more micro-controllers,central processing units, state machines, programmable logic arrays,network logical arrays, or gates, ASIC processors, software-basedcontrollers, combination logic, combinations thereof, and a variety ofother controllers known by one skilled in the art to manipulate datatransceived between one or more of the components or devices of portablesystem 602 and system 600.

Data storage 646 communicates with processor 644. Data storage 646 canhave various configurations known to one skilled in the art. Forexample, data storage 646 can be fixed within control device 604 andalternatively can be removable insertable within control device 604.Therefore, data storage 646 can be a removable magnetic media, opticalmedia, memory stick, or the like. Further, data storage 646 can be oneor more flash memory cards, RAM, ROM, programmable RAM or ROM, and thelike. Generally, data storage 646 is configured to store exerciseprograms with motivational content and/or control signals received fromcommunication system 18, e.g., the iFit website, the exercise dataobtained from sensor 630 of audio delivery device 606 and sensing device608, and any measurable parameter of the user and/or the treadmillsensed by one or more different sensors coupled to the user and/or thetreadmill.

According to another aspect of the present invention, control device 604includes an interface 648. Interface 648 allows control device 604 tocommunicate with audio delivery device 606 and sensing device 608.Therefore, interface 648 performs the functions of port 616 andoptionally 618 described above with respect to FIG. 22. It can beunderstood that the functionality of interface 648 can be executed by aplurality of interfaces. For instance, interface 648 can include anaudio interface and a data interface. The audio interface being capableof transceiving data between control device 604 and audio deliverydevice 606 in an audio format, while the data interface transceives databetween control device 604 and sensing device 608 and optionallytreadmill 12, computer 14, communication system 18, treadmill 20, andthird party 21. Consequently, interface 648 can have variousconfigurations as known by one skilled in the art in light of theteaching contained herein.

Optionally, interface 648 can communicate with treadmill 12 to delivercontrol signals and receive data representative of any measurableparameter of treadmill 12. Further, interface 648 can facilitatecommunication between portable system 602 and communication system 18.

As illustrated in dotted lines, control device 604 can optionallyinclude one or more sensors or sensing devices 650. For example, whencontrol device 604 incorporates the functionality of sensing device 608or sensor 630, control device 604 includes the various components ofsensing device 608 and/or sensor 630. Similarly, when control device 604partially or completely incorporates audio delivery device 606, controldevice 604 can include sensors 630 (FIG. 22).

Communicating with control device 604 is audio delivery device 606.Audio delivery device 606 includes an appropriate interface 652 to allowcommunication between control device 604 and audio delivery device 606.For example, interface 652 can take the form of one or more audio jacks,as discussed herein, or other interfaces so long as such interfaces arecomplementary to those of control device 604.

Further, as mentioned above, audio delivery device 606 can include (i)one or more audio outputs 654, such as but not limited to two speakers(FIG. 22); (ii) one or more sensors 656 for sensing measurableparameters of the exercising user; (iii) one or more processors 658 thatmanage the delivery of audio signals or data between control device 604and audio delivery device 606 and facilitates the delivery of exercisedata tracked by sensor 656; and (iv) a data storage 660 for storingaudio signals or data and the data representative of the measurableparameters sensed by sensor 656. Each of the above can have a similarconfiguration to the interfaces, audio outputs, processors, sensors, anddata storages discussed herein. Generally, each of the above can havevarious other configurations known to one skilled in the art in view ofthe teaching contained herein.

Optional sensing device 608, as illustrated, includes an interface 670that assists with the transmission of sensed data to control device 604,and subsequently to communication system 18. As with audio deliverydevice 606, sensing device 608 includes at least one processor 672, atleast one data storage 674, and at least one sensor 676. Sensor 676 ofsensing device 608 typically tracks different measurable parameters ofthe user than those parameters sensed by sensor 630 (FIG. 22) or sensor656. Although this is typically the case, one skilled in the art canappreciate that sensor 676 can sense the same measurable parameters asthose sensed by sensor 656.

Generally, portable system 602 can be used in a variety of manners toprovide a user with motivational content and optional access to iFitwebsite 300 (FIG. 12). In one configuration, a user connects controldevice 604 to personal computer 14. Subsequently, control device 604through computer 14 accesses communication system 18, treadmill 20, orthird party 21 and hence accesses iFit website 300. The user, therefore,can obtain audio exercise programs from iFit website 300 in a mannersimilar to that described above.

For example, once a user connects to iFit website 300, and optionallylogs in, the user can review the available audio programs and downloadone or more audio program files from audio program module 304 (FIG. 14).As a user selects the audio program files, the user optionally specifiesthe type of exercise device being used. Consequently, communicationsystem 18 displays audio program files specific to the type of exercisemechanism or equipment available to the user. The user can then downloada copy of the motivational content, such as in an MP3, WAV, AU, MIDI, orother formats, optionally with control signals.

Depending on the particular configuration of the present invention andthe capabilities of portable system 602, either personal computer 14 orcontrol device 604 can retrieve the downloaded audio program file andstore the same in data storage 646. Consequently, control device 604 canoptionally directly communicate with communication system 18, such aswhen control device 604 can access network 16 remotely or otherwisecreate a connection with communication system 18, i.e., a wirelessconnection to the Internet, or the like. In the case where personalcomputer 14 downloads the program file, a user can cause control device604 to communicate with personal computer 14 to retrieve the audioprogram file or optionally retrieve a removable data storage component,such as an MP3 cartridge or memory stick from personal computer 14 andinsert the same into control device 604.

Once the file has been retrieved and is accessible by control device604, whether the exercise program is stored within a removable datastorage component of control device 604 or in non-removable data storageof control device 604, the user can begin to exercise on treadmill 12 inaccordance with the motivational content and optional control signalsstored in the data storage.

For discussion purposes, let us assume that only motivational content isdownloaded to control device 604. This is illustrative of the case wherethe available treadmill 12 is iFit incompatible. Consequently, the useraccesses iFit website 300 (FIG. 12) through personal computer 14, whichis not connected to treadmill 12, and manually operates the treadmill inaccordance with the motivational content delivered to the user. It isunderstood, however, that an exercise program with only motivationalcontent can be used with an iFit compatible treadmill, so long as theuser manually controls the exercise mechanism and no connection isneeded between treadmill 12 and communication system 18 (FIG. 21).

In the above described scenario, the user can exercise whether or nottreadmill 12 is directly connected to iFit website 300. As the userexercises, sensor 630 tracks any measurable parameter of the exercisinguser, such as the pulse rate of the user. Substantially simultaneouslywith sensor 630 detecting the user's pulse rate, sensing device 608tracks the speed and/or distance of the user during the exercise programor routine, while sensors included within treadmill 12 track one or moreoperating parameters of treadmill 12. As data is collected, sensingdevice 608, audio delivery device 606, and optionally treadmill 12deliver such data to control device 604 where the data is stored inpreparation for uploading to communication system 18, treadmill 20,and/or third party 21. Optionally, sensing device 608, audio deliverydevice 606, and optional treadmill 12 can deliver the gathered data whenthe user has completed the exercise workout.

Following completion of the exercise program, the user can connectportable system 602 to personal computer 14, such as by insertingcontrol device 604 into a cradle adjoining computer 14, by removal of aremovable memory, via a wireless connection, or the like. Subsequently,the user can upload the exercise data to iFit website 300 where the datacan be stored within the iFit website 300, and more specificallyhardware and/or software modules associated with iFit website 300, suchas in the user's personal storage of memory 278 (FIG. 11). This storedinformation can be accessed by a personal trainer and thereafteranalyzed, whether or not such analysis includes comparing the presentlyreceived exercise data with stored exercise. Following the analysis ofthe exercise data, the personal trainer can develop various otheruser-specific audio programs that the user can access when they next logonto iFit website 300. Such user-specific exercise programs or routinescan be stored or optionally e-mailed to the user's mailbox 386 (FIG. 16)and stored within data storage 390.

Alternatively, iFit website 300 can automatically analyze the exercisedata uploaded from control device 604 to automatically develop otheraudio programs, update the distance traveled by the user during theexercise program to update information associated with a race around theworld competition, race against the computer, and/or race againstspecific other competitors.

In this manner, a user that owns an iFit incompatible exercise devicecan still obtain the benefits of using the iFit website 300 throughportable system 602 whether alone or in combination with computer 14. Inthis manner, the user can be aided in performing exercise programs androutines and be motivated to exercise in the future.

In another configuration, portable system 602 can be used in connectionwith an iFit compatible treadmill 12. In this particular configuration,treadmill 12 is optionally disconnected from communication system 18,e.g., iFit website 300. In a manner similar to that described above,motivational content and control signals are retrieved fromcommunication system 18 via personal computer 14. Following retrievaland downloading of the appropriate motivational content and other audiocontent, such as one or more control signals, control device 604directly communicates with the iFit compatible treadmill 12, such as viaone or more of the various input ports, such as port 102 or port 104 orvia a wireless, IR, RF connection through port 105 (FIG. 6). In thismanner, control signals are transmitted from control device 604, such asfrom port 618 (FIG. 22) to treadmill 12 to operate treadmill 12 in asynchronized manner with the motivational content. The operation oftreadmill 12 can be either synchronized or asynchronous to themotivational content delivered to the user through audio delivery device606. Alternatively, audio output can be delivered to the users throughspeaker 96 on control panel 22 (FIG. 6).

On completion of the exercise program or routine, or throughout theexercise program or routine, the exercise data received by sensingdevice 608 and/or sensor 630 can be delivered to iFit website 300,either directly through treadmill 12 or upon uploading such data throughcomputer 14 to communication system 18. Optionally, control device 604can receive data representative of any measurable parameter of treadmill12, such as speed, incline, distance traveled by the user, operationalstatus of treadmill 12, problems with one or more components or modulesof treadmill 12, and the like and deliver the same to communicationsystem 18.

In still another configuration, such as when treadmill 12 is connectedto communication system 18 via network 16, audio programming, optionallywith associated control signals, either synchronous or asynchronous withthe audio motivational content, can be downloaded from communicationsystem 18 to treadmill 12 and subsequently downloaded to control device604 via a wireless connection, physical connection, such as a serial,parallel, USB or the like connections, a combination thereof, or thelike. In this manner, a user can download one or more exercise programsthat can be used in association with either iFit or non-iFit compatibleexercise equipment at various other locations.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the exerciseprograms retrieved and stored within control device 604 can be developedfor use without an exercise mechanism currently owned by the user, butassociated with an exercise mechanism at a health club or for usewithout any exercise mechanism, such as riding a bicycle, running,walking and the like. In this manner, the user is provided with variousmanners to obtain and exercise while tracking the exercise dataassociated with the user's workout.

Referring now to FIG. 24, an alternate configuration of control device604 is depicted. As illustrated, control device 680 includes a port 682in the form of a plurality of contacts (not shown) that mate with acorresponding number of contacts 686 formed in a cradle 684. The cradle684 can be in communication with computer 14 or treadmill 12, whether aphysical connection, as represented by cable 689, or a connectionlessconnection to upload and download the data between communication system18 and the various other systems, devices, and modules of system 600.Optionally, cradle 684 can be mounted to or integrally formed withtreadmill 12. Although it is preferred that a number of contacts be usedto allow communication between control device 680 and cradle 684, oneskilled in the art can appreciate that a variety of differentconnections can be used, such as but not limited to, serial, parallel,USB, or a connectionless connection, for instance, wireless, IR and thelike.

As shown, cradle 684 includes an activation button 688 that initiatesthe uploading or downloading of data to and from control device 680. Itcan be understood by one skilled in the art, however, that various othermanners are applicable for initiating the delivery and receipt of datato and from control device 680. For instance, in an alternateconfiguration, upon insertion of control device 680 into cradle 684, aconnection is automatically made between control device 680 and cradle684 with treadmill 12, computer 14, communication system 18, treadmill20, and/or third party 21.

Referring now to FIG. 25, an alternative configuration of a controldevice, designated by reference numeral 690 is depicted. The majority ofthe features of control device 680 are the same as control device 604.Hence, like features of control device 690 are designated by likereference numerals.

As illustrated, control device 690 has buttons 614 a-614 n, ports 618and 620, and display 622. Further, control device 690 includes sensor630, having contacts 632 a, 632 b positioned upon control device 690 ina manner to allow a user to contact such contacts 632 a, 632 b usingtheir fingers or thumb. Control device 690 further incorporates sensingdevice 608 and consequently includes an accelerometer, a pedometer,combinations thereof, or some other sensing device 608. One skilled inthe art can identify various other configurations of control device 690in light of the teaching container herein.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrases“communicating with,” and “in communication with” and similar phrasescan mean any type of applicable communication or communication lineconnection known to one skilled in the art in light of the disclosureherein, such as but not limited to electrical communication, opticalcommunication, physical communication, wireless communication, magneticcommunication, software communication, hardware communication, datacommunication, or the like.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its spirit or essential characteristics. The describedembodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrativeand not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicatedby the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Allchanges which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of theclaims are to be embraced within their scope.

1. An exercise system comprising: a sensing device including: a firstsensor configured to detect exercise data of exercise performed by auser; a first data storage configured to store the exercise data; afirst radio frequency (RF) wireless interface; and a first processorconfigured to retrieve the exercise data from the first data storage andsend the exercise data over the first RF wireless interface; a portablecontrol device including: a second RF wireless interface configured toreceive the exercise data from the first RF wireless interface; a seconddata storage; and a second processor configured to store the exercisedata in the second data storage, the second processor further configuredto retrieve the exercise data from the second data storage and send theexercise data through the Internet; and a remote server including: athird interface configured to receive the exercise data through theInternet from the portable control device; a third data storage; and athird processor configured to store the exercise data in the third datastorage, the third processor further configured to analyze the exercisedata and display an analysis of the exercise data on a website that isaccessible to the user through the Internet.
 2. The exercise system ofclaim 1, wherein: the first RF wireless interface is configured tocommunicate using Bluetooth protocol; and the second RF wirelessinterface is configured to communicate using Bluetooth protocol.
 3. Theexercise system of claim 2, wherein: the portable control device is amobile telephone; the mobile telephone further includes an integralelectronic display configured to display the exercise data; the integralelectronic display is both an output device and a touch-sensitive inputdevice that is configured to present one or more touch-sensitivebuttons; the mobile telephone further includes an accelerometer that isconfigured to detect acceleration data of the exercise performed by userand add the acceleration data to the exercise data that is stored in thesecond data storage; and the second RF wireless interface is furtherconfigured to communicate the exercise data to the third interface ofthe remote server through the Internet using IP communication protocol.4. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein: the exercise system furthercomprises a user module including a data storage module and an interfacemodule; the interface module is configured to communicate with theportable control device to receive the exercise data from the portablecontrol device; the data storage module is configured to store theexercise data; and the interface module is further configured to sendthe exercise data through the Internet to the third interface of theremote server.
 5. The exercise system of claim 4, wherein: the portablecontrol device includes a universal serial bus (USB) port configured toallow uploading of the exercise data to the remote server through theuser module.
 6. The exercise system of claim 4, wherein: the exercisesystem further comprises a cradle that includes first electricalcontacts; the portable control device includes second electricalcontacts configured to physically mate with the first electricalcontacts of the cradle; and the cradle is configured to allow uploadingof the exercise data to the remote server through the user module. 7.The exercise system of claim 4, wherein: the exercise system furthercomprises a cradle that includes a first infrared (IR) wirelessinterface; the portable control device includes a second IR wirelessinterface configured to send the exercise data to the first IR wirelessinterface of the cradle; and the cradle is configured to allow uploadingof the exercise data to the remote server through the user module. 8.The exercise system of claim 1, wherein: the exercise performed by theuser is a cycling exercise; and the exercise system further comprises asecond sensing device configured to be coupled to a cycle of the user,the second sensing device including: a second sensor configured todetect, simultaneously with the detecting performed by the first sensor,a cycle parameter of the cycle of the user during performance of thecycling exercise by the user; a fourth data storage configured to storethe cycle parameter; a fourth radio frequency (RF) wireless interface;and a fourth processor configured to retrieve the cycle parameter fromthe fourth data storage and send the cycle parameter over the fourth RFwireless interface to the second RF wireless of the portable controldevice; and the second processor of the portable control device isconfigured to receive the cycle parameter at the second RF wirelessinterface and add the cycle parameter to the exercise data that isstored in the second data storage.
 9. The exercise system of claim 1,wherein: the website is configured to enable the user to communicateword-based conversations directly to other users of other portablecontrol devices in real-time via the website.
 10. The exercise system ofclaim 1, wherein: the website is configured to enable the user to accessand change information that was previously stored in the third datastorage of the remote server.
 11. The exercise system of claim 1,wherein: the website is configured to enable the user to generate logininformation and to enter the user-generated login information into thewebsite.
 12. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein: the website isconfigured to enable the user to interact directly with a human personaltrainer via the website.
 13. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein:the website is configured to enable the user to store and view acalendar of upcoming exercise sessions; and the website is configured toenable the user to store and view fitness goals of the user.
 14. Theexercise system of claim 1, wherein: the portable control device furtherincludes an integral electronic display that is configured to displaythe exercise data and that is configured to function as a virtualreality display.
 15. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein: theportable control device further includes an integral electronic displayconfigured to display the exercise data; and the integral electronicdisplay is both an output device and a touch-sensitive input device thatis configured to present one or more touch-sensitive buttons.
 16. Theexercise system of claim 1, wherein: the portable control device furtherincludes an audio input device including a microphone configured togather audio inputs from the user using a voice activated controller.17. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein: the second processor isconfigured to retrieve the exercise data from the second data storageand send the exercise data over the second RF wireless interface. 18.The exercise system of claim 1, wherein: the portable control devicefurther includes an integral speaker; the portable control devicefurther includes a microphone configured to gather audio inputs from theuser using a voice activated controller; and the second RF wirelessinterface of the portable control device is configured to send thegathered audio inputs over a radio frequency to other RF wirelessinterfaces of other portable control devices, and configured to receiveaudio outputs over the radio frequency from the other RF wirelessinterfaces and present the received audio outputs to the user on theintegral speaker.
 19. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein: theportable control device further includes an accelerometer that isconfigured to detect acceleration data of the exercise performed by theuser and add the acceleration data to the exercise data that is storedin the second data storage.
 20. The exercise system of claim 1, wherein:the third data storage of the remote server is configured to store anexercise program; the third processor of the remote server is furtherconfigured to retrieve, from the third data storage, the exerciseprogram and send, over the third interface and through the Internet, theexercise program to the portable control device; and the portablecontrol device is configured to use the exercise program to control astationary exercise machine that is local to the portable controldevice.